Chamba Petal or Hoe Currency, Based

Five and a half feet. A bronze flower, opening at the top of a long stem.

The Chamba peoples of Nigeria or Cameroon cast this petal, or hoe, currency in the 20th century. Currencies shaped from farming tools were used across the region in trade and in social payments such as bridewealth, a nod to the importance of agricultural labor. Several thin petal-like blades open outward in a cup at the top of the shaft, held by a small binding.

The metal has a soft gray-brown patina. A tall corner suits it. Water it with a glance.