Object Details
- Label Text
- In areas of Nigeria and central Africa unadorned copper and iron rods, wires, bars and blades served as currency. Instead of being valued according to weight, these currencies were priced by length. Bars of iron such as these were used as currency particularly in parts of Nigeria where blacksmiths were in need ore for smelting.
- Description
- Flattened narrow iron bars of approximately the same length wtih a deep hammered texture. The spongy nature of the iron can be seen on each flattened end. Iron oxide patina.
- Provenance
- Tom Joyce, Santa Fe, 1986 to 2002
- Content Statement
- As part of our commitment to accessibility and transparency, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is placing its collection records online. Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks. If you see content requiring immediate action, we will do our best to address it in a timely manner. Please email nmafacuratorial@si.edu if you have any questions.
- Image Requests
- High resolution digital images are not available for some objects. For publication quality photography and permissions, please contact the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives at https://africa.si.edu/research/eliot-elisofon-photographic-archives/
- Data Source
- National Museum of African Art
- Maker
- Undetermined artist
- Date
- 19th-20th century
- Credit Line
- Gift of Tom Joyce and museum purchase with funds donated by Carl Jennings
- Medium
- Iron
- Dimensions
- H x W x D: 39.4 x 2.5 x 12.7 cm (15 1/2 x 1 x 5 in.)
- Type
- Sculpture
