Bamum Tribe Ceremonial Copper Currency

A monumental copper alloy anklet from the Bamum people of Cameroon

Cast in the Cameroon Grassfields during the early to mid-20th century, this substantial Bamum anklet belongs to a tradition of metal ornaments that functioned as wearable adornment, prestige objects, and stores of wealth. Its broad horseshoe form is covered with open geometric patterns, raised bosses, and tightly coiled embellishments, transforming a functional object into an intricate work of metal artistry.

The anklet was produced through lost-wax casting, a process in which the original wax model is destroyed as the molten metal takes its place. Its green verdigris surface, softened edges, and irregular coloration reflect decades of age and handling. Now displayed as an individual object, it offers a tangible connection to the sophisticated copper casting traditions of the Bamum Kingdom.

Metalwork of the Cameroon Grassfields

Bamum Origin: The Bamum people established a powerful kingdom centered in Foumban, a renowned center of artistic production in western Cameroon.
Portable Wealth: Large copper alloy bracelets and anklets could serve as visible markers of status and stored value rather than ordinary day-to-day currency.
Lost-Wax Casting: The hollow form was cast from a wax model, allowing the maker to create its dense arrangement of piercings, coils, ridges, and raised bosses.
Horseshoe Form: The open C-shaped construction allowed the substantial ornament to be worn around the ankle while emphasizing the scale and value of the metal.

Surface, Pattern & Form

Open Geometric Work: Repeating triangular and circular openings create depth across the curved exterior.
Raised Embellishment: A prominent central boss is surrounded by smaller spirals and linear details that animate the surface from every angle.
Aged Verdigris: Green oxidation, darker recesses, and areas of exposed copper alloy reveal the object’s age and material history.
Freestanding Display: The rounded form can rest upright or on its side, allowing different sections of the casting to remain visible.

Product Details

Culture: Bamum people
Object: Currency or prestige anklet
Region: Cameroon Grassfields, western Cameroon
Date: Early to mid-20th century
Material: Cast copper alloy
Technique: Lost-wax casting with open geometric decoration
Dimensions: Approximately 4.75 in long x 5.25 in deep x 2.75 in high
Color: Verdigris green with brown and copper-toned variation
Found In: Cameroon
Includes: One antique Bamum anklet

Condition

Wear consistent with age and use is present throughout, including oxidation, surface discoloration, softened details, small marks, and irregularities within the casting. These characteristics are integral to the history and individuality of the original object.

Ideal For

• Displaying African metalwork and currency forms

• Adding a compact antique object to a shelf or console

• Collecting material culture from the Cameroon Grassfields

• Studying lost-wax casting and openwork decoration

• Presenting alone or alongside other historic metal objects

Dense with pierced geometry and raised copperwork, this Bamum anklet preserves the artistry, value, and social meaning once carried through a wearable form.