Stylized, copper version of iron throwing knife used as currency and for tribute-giving, South Sudan, late 19th century

Stylized, copper version of iron throwing knife used as currency and for tribute-giving, South Sudan, late 19th century

South Sudan, copper, 389x27 cm, British Museum

In common with many other Central and Sudanic African peoples, the Azande made and used throwing knives as currency before the introduction of imported scrap metal and coinage in the twentieth century.
Produced by the Nzakara and Ngbandi, vassal peoples on the periphery of Azande influence, these stylized, copper versions of iron throwing knives were…