1: A large anklet of the Peul in the shape of a double cone. Made of yellow cast-alloy (brass with high copper content) (hollow on the inside). Cast décor of spirals, lined bands and wavy lines, as well as some smooth surfaces engraved with figural and geometric forms. DM: 9 cm (upper section), 7.5 cm x 10 cm (lower section); and 23 cm in the middle of the double cone. Weight: 2780 grams.
2: A heavy anklet, cast in copper, twisted, terminating in thick, polygonal pommels on both sides. The outer surfaces of the ‘copper bar’ are marked with dot-and-circle motifs and engraved with lines and finely lined surfaces. Dimensions: 13.5 cm x 14.5 cm; c. 7 cm thick. Weight: 3710 grams. Both objects were used both as women’s ornaments and valuable objects or form of currency for the ‘bride price’. They show a very good, old usage patina and no remarkable damage.
First third of the 20th century.

Provenance: Alexander Posch Collection, Graz. Alexander Posch was a camera operator. In this professional role he travelled several times throughout Africa with documentary filmmaker Max Lersch in the 1950s and 1960s. (ME)

Lit.: 'Bronzes et autres Alliages' by Andre Blandin, fig. p. 10, 11 and p. 17.