Ring Money
The bronze rings common in many West African cultures stand at the intersection of
art, jewelry and money. Many come in forms that can be worn, thus displaying the
wearer's wealth. The copper from which they are made is intrinsically valuable and,
in this regard, they are similar to other forms of African money. The
manilla is a particular form common in Nigeria and copied by European
powers, in part, for the purchase of slaves.
Bronze ring, West Africa (19th or 20th century).
Bronze ring, West Africa (late 19th century).
Bronze ring, West Africa (late 19th century).
Bronze manilla, European copy (early
20th century). This piece copied a common form of Nigerian money. Many such copies
were not accepted because they gave off the wrong sound when stuck.