These anklets were worn by women of the Mongo tribe of northwest Congo. They were status symbols and were also used as currency. They were made by pouring hot copper and tin into molds set in the ground. Once formed they were removed and bent around trees until they had the appropriate size. Because they were heavy, women would wrap fabric and leaves - called Litelele - around their feet to keep from harming them. Typically they were worn for celebrations and relatively short periods, but on occasion brides might actually wear them for months at a time!

Provenance: former private German collection.




Object

Anklet / Currency



Ethnic group:

Mongo, Ekonda



Country:

DR Congo



Material:

Bronze



Period:

First half 20th century



Sold with stand:

No



Dimensions:

12x9x6 cm



Weight:

750 gram



Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $80.00

Shipping:

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Location: This item ships from The Netherlands .

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