Nigerian Currency in the Form of a Stylized Antelope, Based

Fifteen inches of forged iron, trimmed down to the idea of an antelope.

In many parts of Nigeria, iron objects of distinctive shape were used in exchange and bridewealth, and blacksmiths gave some of them sculptural form. This one dates to the 20th century.

A long, slender shaft angles upward to meet a short pointed spike and a broad, sweeping curved blade that suggests a horn. Bands of fine wire wrap the joints and the shaft. The iron is a rich rusty brown, mounted on a black base.

Currency, with a sense of line.