Congolese Forged Iron Stake Currency, Based

Some iron was made to be used. Some was made to be admired, and passed over at a wedding.

This stake currency was forged in the Republic of Congo in the 20th century. Across Central Africa, iron was shaped into elaborate forms that held worth in exchange and in bridewealth, often far too fanciful for practical use. Twenty-three and a half inches on its stand. A long, flat shaft ends in a flared foot, then sweeps above into a crescent blade with a thin, upturned tip. A pointed spur juts from the side just below the blade. Warm rust-brown patina.

Fanciful, and proud of it.