Nigerian Iron Petal Currency, Based

Six and a half feet, and from a distance, a flower.

Forged in iron in Nigeria in the 20th century, this is a petal currency. Across West Africa, forged forms served as currency, as bridewealth, and as markers of prestige. A long, slender shaft ends in four broad, fan-shaped blades that open outward like petals, gathered beneath by a wrapped collar. The metal is mottled rust-brown and gray, with the marks of the forge. It stands on a square base.

Place it against a plain wall. The shadow is half the object. Look at both.