Congolese Handa or Cross Currency, Based
Product ID: A1400-300
$2,950.00
About this piece
An X in green-gray bronze, standing very still on a slim iron stand.
This handa, or cross currency, was cast in bronze by makers of the Katanga region along the Kasai River in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, in the 19th century. Metal crosses of this type circulated as currency, and were commonly paid in bridewealth and other important exchanges. The two arms flare outward from a narrow waist, and a raised rim frames the edges. The metal is pale green-gray with mottled darker patina and some verdigris.
About 22 inches tall on its mount. Useful as money once. Still useful as wall sculpture.
