Description:

**Originally Listed At $200**

West Africa, ca. 17th to 18th century CE. An elegant pair of currency rings known as a "manillas" with horseshoe-shaped bodies that resolve in flared terminals - the smaller one comprised of copper with a trace of silver, and the larger one from brass. Bands of circular and cross-hatch motifs decorate the sides of the larger example, and fine green and brown patina envelops both queen manillas. Forms like these examples have been used as currency since the end of the 15th century. While some smaller ones were made in England or France and used for trade with Africa, larger "queen" manillas (like these) as well as "king" manillas were usually forged in Africa. Interestingly, their metal composition can vary from copper to brass, and many were mixed with lead or iron. Although they can vary in terms of form, size, and quality, Africans traditionally have judged their quality by the sound made when they are struck. Size: 9.625" W x 4.375" H (24.4 cm x 11.1 cm)

Provenance: private J.H. collection, Beaverton, Oregon, USA

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

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Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#152120

  • Condition: Both are intact. Larger queen manilla still presents with nice details - circular and cross hatch motifs - adorning the form. Both present with a attractive age patina.

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December 29, 2021 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000