Mongo Konga or Legband Currency, Based

Wear it on the leg, spend it at the market. The konga managed both.

Heavy metal rings and bands like this one were worn as adornment and also held recognized value in exchange, a store of wealth and a form of currency in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This cast bronze legband dates to the 19th century. It stands thirteen and a half inches on a modern base, a cylinder encircled by three raised ribs. Fine incised work follows: a herringbone spine down the upper section, a band of chevrons at the rim, a row of scallops near the lower edge. The bronze has mellowed to a deep, glossy brown.

Jewelry and a bank account in one. Few ornaments can say as much.