TERA Gallery - African Art and Antiquities

"Altering The Way You View The World Of Art"
Type of Object:     
    Mbole (Anklet) Currency
    19th c.

    This anklet or ‘‘Jonga’’ currencies is made of copper and was
    used for trade of goods, bride prices, and was worn by both men
    and women, although primarily by women.

    These hammered copper anklets were worn by MBOLE women in
    eastern Zaire, up to four on each leg.  They represent the personal
    wealth of the individual.  

Ethnic Group:    
    Mbole Society
    Njonge Society
    Jonga Society
    Nkushu Society
    MongoSociety


Country of Origin:          
    Congo


Material:          
    Copper


Dimensions:
    25" around
    8" across the center

Reference:  
    Roberto Ballarini, Ferrie Monete dell' Africa Equatoriale, Galleria
    Africa Curio-Milano 1998. Pgs 37, p37

    Roberto Ballarini, Armi Bianche Dell'Africa Nera (Black Africa's
    Traditional Arms), Africa Curio, Milano 1992.Pgs 128.,
    p115#73a?,73b?,73c?

    Banque De Kinshasa Exercice 1978, p?

    Tom Joyce, Univ. of NC exhibition. Life Force at the Anvil, The
    Blacksmith's Art from Africa. Exhibition May - August 1998. Pgs
    32, p24figure 38

    Other People's Money, Money in Africa, p?

    German Museum Collection - p1?