An Exceptional Yoruba Torque...

Description

An Exceptional Yoruba Torque
Nigeria, 18th-19th century (or earlier)

Solid copper alloy, very heavy. In excellent condition, with a perfect patina of use and age. Authentic copper alloy torques of this size and quality are rare. This compares favorably to the one in the Brooklyn Museum (CUR.1997.2.4). Given the scarcity of copper ore in western Africa, the metal was a highly prized commodity attained through trade with Europe or from other distant parts of Africa. When European ships started arriving along the African coast during the 16th century, they carried brass (an alloy of copper) manillas -- bracelet-shaped weights in different sizes -- that served as a medium of exchange. The Yoruba melted them down and recast perhaps twenty or more into larger currencies, or torques. Such items were the first true general-purpose currency known in West Africa, being used for ordinary market purchases, bride price, payment of fines, compensation of diviners, and for the needs of the next world, as burial money. A torque of this size and quality would have been owned by the wealthiest or titled members of a society.

Provenance:
Joan Barist Primitive Art, New York, NY

Height: 10 ½ inches

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