Object Details
- Label Text
- Due to its scarcity, copper, the "red" metal, was associated with kings, leadership and wealth, all important factors in its use as currency. Copper currency was fashioned in a number of shapes, such as this U-shaped rod currency used in central Africa. The most widely recognized term for this type of currency is boloko, used by Kuba (also known as Bushongo) peoples. This U-shaped currency is also called kunga by Nkutshu peoples, the makers of this particular piece.
- Description
- Copper alloy ingot rod drawn and bent in a U-shape so that its ends are parallel. Each end is compressed and flattened into the shape of a disk. Surface has forged undulations delivered while drawing the ingot to its final shape. Dark brown stable smoked patina with some highlights from wear.
- Provenance
- Tom Joyce, Santa Fe, 1986-2002
- 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 Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks.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
- Nkutshu artist
- Date
- 19th-20th century
- Credit Line
- Gift of Tom Joyce and museum purchase with funds donated by Carl Jennings
- Medium
- Copper alloy
- Dimensions
- H x W x D: 46.4 x 33 x 7.6 cm (18 1/4 x 13 x 3 in.)
- Type
- Sculpture
