TitleKatanga Cross Copper Alloy Currency Luba African Art
Type of ObjectCurrency
Country of OriginDemocratic Republic of Congo
PeopleLuba
Materialscopper or brass; unknown metal content
Approximate AgeEarly to mid 20th century
Other DimensionsHeight: 8 Inches
Width: 7.75 Inches
Overall ConditionGood
Damage/Repairworn, tarnished surface

Additional Information: This Katanga cross is found among the Luba of Katanga where Copper is known as one of the most important row material. Several examples of these crosses were found in the Upembe and Zambezi regions. These crosses were used as currency in commercial transactions as well as an exchange unit during the matrimonial ceremonies. Suzan Lerer has published three crosses similar to this one but attributed to the Igbo Ukwu and known as West African Katanza (Katanza name may derive from the Katanga province in the Democratic Republic of Congo where copper crosses like this were extensively used. For more information see Susan Lerer AFRICAN METALWORK and IVORY1993, p. 33, fig. 45

See Roberto Ballarini, Black Africa's Traditional Arms, p. 118-119 for a Luba example.

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