Mbole Copper Anklet Currency

Copper made into a halo.

Mbole makers of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, formed this anklet currency in copper in the 20th century. Large copper rings were commonly used in Central Africa for payments and as status goods. This one is a wide open ring that thins slightly toward the gap, where lighter rosy copper shows inside. The outer surface is hand hammered, orange-brown with spots of green and gray. A steel rod and black base lift it into a clean, round silhouette.

About 9.5 inches wide. Makes any shelf look like a gallery.