Congolese Iron Anklet Currency

Heavy enough to be worn. Heavy enough to be counted on.

Massive metal rings of this kind were worn as adornment and also held as a store of wealth, passing between families in exchange and bridewealth. This anklet currency is from the Republic of Congo, 20th century. The cuff is a thick crescent with a broad flattened face and a wide gap between its ends. Hammered and dented from long use, dark brown giving way to coppery tones and flecks of bright green verdigris at the edges. Six and a half inches across, six high.

It sits on a table like a small sculpture, which is rather what it is.