Kavel 2789

Africa (West Africa, Benin/Nigeria), bronze Royal Benin Kingdom Tribal Bracelet. Early large heavy bronze bracelet (Manilla) (1752.60 g.). ca. 16-18th cent. This may be the heaviest reported. Internally, manillas were the first true general-purpose currency known in West Africa, being used for ordinary market purchases, bride price, payment of fines, compensation of diviners, and for the needs of the next world, as burial money. Attractive example of African tribal art and probably unique in this size