Congolese Large Scale Handa or Cross Currency, Based

Bridewealth, in the copper-rich lands of south-central Africa, did not come in envelopes.

It came in crosses. This is a handa, cast in bronze in the Kasai region of the Democratic Republic of Congo, in the 19th century. Ingots of this X shape circulated as currency and as a store of wealth, used in significant payments. Just over twenty inches tall, generous even by the standards of the form.

Four arms flare from the center, each edged by a raised rim, with a fine ridge down the middle. The surface is mottled grey-green, with verdigris and earthy encrustation. Mounted on a slim black stand.

Money you can hang on a wall.