Description:

West Africa, Mali, ca. 19th century or earlier CE. A pair of copper cuff bracelets that doubled as trade currency known as manillas, both with thick U-shaped bands, etched and molded with raised knob decoration. Heavy copper alloy bracelets are known from this region of Africa from the 8th century CE onward and primarily used as both symbols of wealth and a medium of exchange. In the 15th century, the Portuguese began importing their own brass "manillas" manufactured in Antwerp and Amsterdam to be used as trade currency. Size: 3.84" L x 0.9" W (9.8 cm x 2.3 cm); interior diameter: 2.26" Diameter (5.7 cm)

Provenance: Private Arlington, Virginia, USA collection

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#167592

  • Condition: Wear and abrasions to the surfaces, but otherwise intact. Nice signs of age and dark patina.

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December 21, 2023 8:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$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