Hoe currency

Object Details

Undetermined artist

Label Text

While implements such as hoes, throwing knives and other weapons serve a utilitarian function, in some cases these objects were also used as currency. Fabricated from copper, bronze, iron and brass, these objects constitute some of the most dramatic and varied of African currency forms. Hoe money came in the shape of a heart, spade, paddle, teardrop, trowel, anchor or blade. In fact, the shapes began to overlap the objects classified as knives or blades. Hoe money varied in value, but most often it was used as bridewealth. Bridewealth is the exchange of currency or valuable goods and services to acknowledge all that the bride brings to her husband and his family, including the hope of descendants. Hoe money was also frequently reformed into other objects or implements as needed.

Description

Iron currency in the form of a spade, rectangular with socket. Heavy iron oxide patina.

Provenance

African trader, New York, -- to 1995-1997

Jean and Noble Endicott, New York, 1995-1997 to 2000

Content Statement

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Credit Line

Gift of Drs. Jean and Noble Endicott

Late 19th-early 20th century

Object number

2000-28-2

Restrictions & Rights

Usage conditions apply

Type

Sculpture

Medium

Iron

Dimensions

H x W x D: 8 x 27.3 x 15.4 cm (3 1/8 x 10 3/4 x 6 1/16 in.)

Geography

Cameroon

See more items in

National Museum of African Art Collection

National Museum of African Art

Topic

Marriage

male

Trade

Currency

Record ID

nmafa_2000-28-2

Metadata Usage (text)

Usage conditions apply

GUID (Link to Original Record)

http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ys79631bb27-f9aa-4de8-ae4a-830a0b888d7d