Hausa Iron Currency, Nigeria, Based

The shortest of the iron stalks, and the best behaved.

Hausa metalworkers of Nigeria, West Africa, made this iron currency form in the 20th century. Such pieces are often associated with trade and with marriage payments, standing in for goods of real value. A squared, textured head rests on two thin side arms that curve inward to the stem. The iron has a pale, sandy rust with scattered darker patches, a little lighter than similar pieces. It sits on a flat black base.

About 37 inches tall. Fits where a floor lamp would, and asks for less.