Senufo Bronze Anklet Boat Currency

Senufo peoples, late 19th to early 20th century, Côte d'Ivoire, West Africa

Superb and traditional Senufo bronze “boat” anklet currency, cast using the lost-wax method and displaying a graceful, upswept double-band form that joins into a stylized central ridge with raised decorative protuberances. This classic horseshoe-shaped piece was designed to rest around the foot as both adornment and wealth. Warm, aged bronze surfaces show a deep patina from long use and handling.

Often referred to as manillas, such bronze or copper anklets served as a widespread form of commodity money across West Africa. Produced in numerous sizes and regional styles, they functioned as units of exchange, bridewealth, status display, and treasured personal ornaments. Their origin likely predates European contact, though Portuguese trade accelerated circulation and standardized certain forms. By the 16th century, manillas were deeply embedded in regional economies—used to purchase goods such as ivory and, tragically, were also tied to transactions in the Atlantic slave trade.

Among the Senufo, prestige metals were closely associated with wealth, lineage standing, and ceremonial importance. Anklet currencies like this one were prized possessions, valued not only for their material worth but also for their elegant craftsmanship and symbolic association with prosperity and social identity.

Excellent condition. Wear consistent with age and use. Beautiful polished patina. Size approx. 13,8cm x 8,1cm x 4,2cm. 

Provenance: Swedish private collection.

References and further reading:

The Teach Yourself Guide to Numismatics, C.C. Chamberlain, English Universities Press. 1963, p. 92.

The West African Manilla Currency: Research and Securing of Evidence from 1439-2019, Rolf Denk, Tredition GmbH, Hamburg, 2020.

Primitive Money in its ethnological, historical and economic aspects, Paul Einzig, Eyre & Spottiswoode, London, 1949.

Object biographies, Manilla or Penannular Bracelet Currency, Eric Edwards, Balfour Library, Pitt Rivers Museum, January 29th, 2010. (https://web.prm.ox.ac.uk/rpr/index.php/objectbiographies/78-manilla.html)