A Collection of Five Nigerian Forged-Iron Hoe Currencies Nigeria, probably 19th / early 20th century

A Collection of Five Nigerian Forged-Iron Hoe Currencies Nigeria, probably 19th / early 20th century. (Date 1890)

An impressive collection of five traditional forged-iron currencies of varying hoe and blade form, each individually wrought and retaining a richly oxidised and encrusted surface patina.

Iron implements and stylised hoe forms served as important stores and measures of value in parts of pre-colonial West Africa, functioning both as practical objects and as currencies employed in exchange, ceremonial payments and bridewealth.

Of particularly monumental scale is the central example, measuring one metre high, its broad rounded blade and projecting tang giving the group a striking sculptural presence.

Heights, excluding stands: 53 cm, 60 cm, 100 cm, 63 cm and 56 cm.

Width 69cm, Depth 3cm