19th C. African Kuba Iron Currency Spear

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kuba peoples, ca. late 19th to early 20th century. A massive iron spear on a wooden pole, made to serve as currency. This is a rare example with its original pole, which is cylindrical for its full length aside from a small cuboid area near its center carved with simple geometric motifs. The blade is leaf-shaped with a raised central ridge, two round perforations near its base, and a narrow, pointed tip. The Kuba people had a Kingdom comprised of many different ethnic groups from the 16th to late 19th century with a central court at Bushoong. Spears like this one would have been used by elite members of the court to signify their wealth. Size: 4.1" W x 43" H (10.4 cm x 109.2 cm)

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA, acquired between 2000 and 2005

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#151959
Condition Report: Rich patina on all surfaces. Form is very well preserved with light wear commensurate with age.