Congolese Bokonga Bracelet Currency

Wealth you could wear. A family wore its prosperity on the arm, for everyone to see.

This bokonga is a bracelet currency from the Democratic Republic of Congo, cast in bronze in the 19th century. Rings of this weight were exchanged as currency and as bridewealth. This one is a thick open cuff with flat, squared ends. Three raised ridges follow the curve of the outer face. The surface is rough and irregular from casting and long use, deep brown with coppery highlights and faint touches of green.

Just over four inches tall, and it feels heavier than that. Pick it up and see.