Ten African Currency Blades Mostly from Central Africa: the Kuba, Zande, Kota, Fang, and Topoke people, c. 19th century Iron, with brass handles, some handles wrapped with copper wire. These pieces might be used for major purchases (of land or animals) or to signify a transfer of wealth at major events, such as birth, coming of age, marriage, or death. The most frequent use was as bridewealth, to compensate a family for the loss of a daughter. The forms were developed from traditional metal objects that were already in use as weapons and knives. While some continued to be functional for work or decorative purposes, most evolved into "pure" currency, deliberately unusable except as objects recognized, prized and accepted widely as payment. Condition note: Six in very good, original condition. The four Kuba blades have a wall mount fastened to one side for display. Provenance: Property from the Esther and Alan Saks Family Collection Heights: ranging from 15 ½ to 22 ½ inches HID12401132022 © 2024 Heritage Auctions | All Rights Reserved