H x W x D: 63 x 19.8 x .8 cm (24 13/16 x 7 13/16 x 5/16 in.)
Type:
Sculpture
Geography:
South Sudan
Democratic Republic of the Congo
Date:
Late 19th-early 20th century
Label Text:
Objects such as hoes, throwing knives and spears were highly valued for their utility. In many African societies, this value was represented by iron blade currency. Blacksmiths forged stylized forms that resembled these objects. Blade currency was not accumulated as personal wealth but rather circulated as a medium of exchange. It was an especially popular form of bridewealth payment since its metal could be reforged into other weapons and tools of value. Bridewealth refers to the practice of compensating the bride's family for the loss of its daughter's services, which will now benefit her new family. It also acknowledges all that a bride brings to her husband and his family, including the hope of descendants.
Description:
Iron currency in the shape of a blade with a flaring convex end and a slightly flaring base above the handle and an overall old iron oxide surface.
Provenance:
Amyas Naegele, New York, -- to ca. 1998
Noble and Jean Endicott, New York, 1998 to 2000
Exhibition History:
Visionary: Viewpoints on Africa's Arts, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C., November 4, 2017-ongoing
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 Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks.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/
