Nigerian Bronze Currency, Based

It looks like a flower. It is, in fact, money.

Across West Africa, metal objects in standardized forms served as stores of value and media of exchange, used in bridewealth and other important transactions. This bronze piece from Nigeria, 20th century, rises more than five feet on its stand. A cluster of broad leaf-shaped blades fans out from the top of a long slender rod, bound together by a wrapped collar. The blades are thin and slightly cupped, uneven at the edges, with a dark weathered surface flecked with lighter tones. A square base holds it.

The bouquet that the bride’s family counted.