The iron, pointed bars with globular mid-sections (from the Fulani, Jukun, and Mumuye), have been vetted as authentic.
Iron 1-6 Mounted 18.75" high SOLD |
Iron 7-12 13.5-15" high $75 each |
Iron 13-18 14.25-16.75" high $75 each |
Iron, 19-24 13.75-14.5" high $75 each |
Photographs © Hamill Gallery
Forged iron ingot currency from the eastern Nigeria and along the border with western Cameroon. The shape is unique with both ends worked into narrow projections from the diamond shaped ingot center. The ends are often worked into different shapes and may be hammered, twisted into snake or bird-like forms. This well forged currency is attributed to the Fulani and Jukun people of the Benue River region and also used by the Mumuye and a number of smaller ethnic groups in the north eastern Nigeria. They are roughly dated between the 16th to the mid 20th century. They are variously identified as "Losol by the eastern Fulani, Tajere by the western Fulani and, Sasoreng or Saka by the Mumuye and Kantai or Kantal by the Jukun" (Johansson, 1967, p. 32 and 41).
Dr. Daniel Mato
Professor Emeritus of Art History
The University of Calgary
Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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