Antique Konga Legband Copper Currency

An early 20th century (possibly late 19th) African Legband (ankle bracelet) of copper alloy, from Mongo Peoples of the Congo. These legbands were both currency and status symbols for the Mongo tribe of northwest Congo. They were made by pouring hot copper and tin into molds set in the ground. Once formed they were removed and bent around trees until they had the appropriate size. Because they could be heavy (up to 20 lbs) women would wrap fabric and leaves – called Litelele – around their feet to keep from damaging them – the feet that is! Typically they were worn for celebrations and relatively short periods, but on occasion brides might actually wear them for months at a time. This antique African tribal legband is displayed and included with a custom-made black iron stand, allowing it to be an excellent decorative item.

Dimensions
6.557.5

(17cm x 13cm x 19cm )

Period
Early 20th Century

$ $1,065

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