Set of two manila bronze bracelets - West Africa - 19th/20th century

Description

Set of two manila bronze bracelets from West Africa, 19th/20th century, with geometric patterns and a beautifully weathered patina. These bronze objects combined a decorative function with their role as trade money.

Origin & meaning
Manillas were a form of premonetary trade money in West Africa. They were used for market transactions, as dowries and on ceremonial occasions. Through Portuguese and later Dutch traders, they circulated from the 16th century and played a role in transatlantic trade. In the 19th/20th century, they were mainly used in the palm oil trade and local exchanges. This set comes from a private collection in Castricum.

Dimensions & condition
Diameter outside: approx. 10 cm & 8.5 cm
Height: approx. 2.5 cm & 2 cm
Condition: signs of use and a natural patina befitting their age.