Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Jonga/Mongo peoples, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A fantastic example of an onganda, also known as a King Manilla, not to be confused with one of the manilla currencies brought by Europeans to western Africa. This massive piece of cast and hammered copper has a curved form, with four flat facets, and slightly bulging, square ends. Ongandas serve as currency, but they are also a display of royal wealth - they were given as bride-prices and used in the royal, pre-funeral "dying ceremony". Size: 10.8" W x 6.55" H (27.4 cm x 16.6 cm); 8.75" H (22.2 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private Glendale, Arizona, USA collection, collected from 1970 to 2000

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#152431

  • Condition: Rich patina on surface. Form is nicely preserved, with wear commensurate with age. There are some natural flaws in the cast which are visible on the piece.

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January 30, 2020 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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