African pre-coinage metal currency takes many unusual forms. One type, commonly called “throwing axe currency,” takes the form of a blunt, ceremonial hatchet or axe. Another type takes the form of a curved knife and is often called “throwing knife currency,” and these objects may actually have served a functional purpose as a weapon of warfare and/or as an agricultural tool; … [Read more...] about African Metal Currency: Researched and Conserved by Al Thompson
The Luba are a matrilineal culture who highly honor their female ancestors. Men may lead among the Luba, but they do so only through the sacred wisdom of women. Female kinship ties are also extremely important to social status. Luba wooden figures of adult women serve as shrine figures that depict important ancestors, and they also serve as illustrations for instructing … [Read more...] about Luba Culture Standing Female Wooden Figure: Researched, Conserved, and Restored by McKenzie Wixon