Description:

West Africa, Nigeria, Eloyi (Afo) or Ngas (Angas) peoples, ca. 19th to early 20th century CE. A massive example of iron currency in the form of a shovel / hoe blade with a rounded point, projecting shoulders, and a tang neck. Objects that doubled as currency - especially hoe shaped- were used throughout much of northern Africa, as money and agriculturally - some of the smaller blades were repurposed into functional tools. The Eloyi people forged some of the largest and heaviest currency hoes which were often presented by the groom to the bride's family as payment. The hoe's ability to till the earth and sow seeds also symbolized the future children of the couple. Size: 25.75" L x 19" W (65.4 cm x 48.3 cm)

Provenance: private San Francisco, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s

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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#176657

  • Condition: Repairs to shoulders with stable fissure on one, and an older repair on the other, the metal welded / reforged into place. Light mineral deposits and brown patina throughout.

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SHIPPING LOGISTICS: As a courtesy to our clients worldwide, Artemis Gallery is happy to handle shipping for most lots sold, taking the hassle (and high cost!) out of having to arrange shipping on your own. Shipping costs will be added to your invoice at auction's end based on information given when you registered to bid - we strive to offer the most economical shipping costs to ensure safe transit. Our shippers of choice are DHL for International shipments and UPS for domestic shipments, but we are able to ship via other carriers at the buyer's expense as deemed necessary or by request.

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November 22, 2024 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