TERA Gallery - African Art and Antiquities

"Altering The Way You View The World Of Art"
Type of Object:     
    Ignot Rod Currency

    Cast in earth and molded from the true African copper indigenous
    to the Katanga area, this form of currency was highly prized since
    these could be easily melted down or shaped to form the bracelet
    and ring currency they so valued. Also used as a beater or ringer
    bar for the old iron bell gongs that later became currency too. A bar
    was struck against the gong to produce the ring or clang to create a
    musical rhythm for ceremonial dances or communication.
Ethnic Group:             


Country of Origin:         
    Congo

Material:               
    Copper       

Deminsions:
    14.25" long by 1/2" wide and 3/8" thick at center; weight is 11
    ounces

Reference: