African Iron Currency, Based

Over five feet of iron, opening at the top like petals.

Forged iron in fixed shapes was used across much of Africa as a store of wealth, exchanged in marriage payments and other significant transactions. This currency, 20th century, rises as a long smooth rod to a cluster of broad spade-like blades that open outward, bound together beneath by a wrapped iron collar. The blades are thin and dark, with mottled, slightly flaking surfaces and a faint lighter band near the foot of the rod. It stands on a base, sixty-four inches high.

Simple means. Elegant outline. A fine tall shadow.