Sculptures such as these were used by the Mfunte as a medium of exchange in the areas around northeastern Nigeria and northern Cameroon until about 1950. They were used as a means of payment in trade on local markets, but were also used as a dowry in a marriage contract. The local name for this currency object is 'suu' or also 'so'.
This currency sculpture is in good condition. The shape is both said to express an animal skin but is also seen as a shield. It is forged from iron and has a patina of weathering and age.
