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Clockwise from top left:
Bracelet
Igbo peoples, Nigeria
Copper alloy
Collection of Mr. and Mrs. John B. Henry II

Bracelet
Ekonda peoples, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Copper alloy
Collection of Mr. and Mrs. John B. Henry II

Semi-spherical ingot
Upper Congo basin
Puddle-cast copper alloy
Collection of Mary E. Cumming

Anklet
Mbole peoples, Democratic Republic of the Congo
Copper alloy
Collection of Mr. and Mrs. John B. Henry II

People of high status wore collars, bracelets and anklets throughout western and central Africa. Blacksmiths cast these either by the lost-wax process or in earthen molds, often incising them with decorative patterns. Representing stored family wealth, these ornaments were usually large and heavy. Aside from their intrinsic value, they were also valued for their artistry.

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