Lot 91, Auction 4/20/2026: African Lobi Iron Snake Currency w/ Projecting Tongue

$162.50

In stock

West Africa, Burkina Faso, Lobi peoples, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A forged-iron currency piece in the shape of a slithering snake. The vertical animal has a slender body, a narrow tail, and a raised ovoid head with bulging eyes and a projecting ‘tongue.’ The Lobi revered the snake for its mystical and spiritual properties as well as its association with the Lobi spirits known as the Thil. Iron snake pieces like this example are used between individuals during special or unusual transactions; however, the Lobi would also attach them to their calves and shins to be protected from snake bites and lightning strikes. Size: 20.2″ L x 0.7″ W (51.3 cm x 1.8 cm); 21.5″ H (54.6 cm) on included custom stand.

Condition: Slight bending to overall form, with light encrustations, and minor abrasions to body and head, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits and nice patina throughout.

Provenance: private Louisville, Kentucky, USA collection, acquired 1990-1998

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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