Nigerian Double Gong Currency

c. 1950
$980 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 12.25" D: 0.25" H: 17.75"
Materials
Iron
Collection #
CAA1121
Estimated Shipping
$38

Like many pieces of traditional African metalwork, this sculptural iron-wrought double gong served multiple purposes. It was a ceremonial instrument, status symbol, and traded as currency. Incorporating a range of metalwork motifs, likely as a result of overlapping cultural influences, the iron currency was nonetheless a valuable symbol of wealth and power. The double gong form has been flattened to resemble hoe currencies, and the simply forged connecting band is decorated by a swirling reed motif. Similar swirling designs were used throughout African metal and woodworking as eye-catching examples of the creator's mastery of their material. With rustic character, this iron currency looks especially striking as a piece of wall-mounted sculpture.

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Elizabeth Krueger | Elizabeth Krueger Design

“PAGODA RED was extremely supportive in helping to pull accessory options together for the Lake Forest Showhouse. After providing them with details and our vision on how we were looking to finish our space, Laurene helped curate options that made it easy for us to edit and finalize. It's also no surprise that the unique pieces we used in our showhouse space were some of the first to sell.”

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