Legband Currency

Ekonda Tribe

Democratic Republic of Congo

$1500

Expert blacksmiths cast these legbands in the ground using traditional methods. It is rare to find these pieces outside of museums anymore.  They convey both strength and harmony in their symmetry and were worn by married women during celebrations.  Bunched fabric called litelele would be worn around the ankle to protect the women's legs from the weight of the metal.  Because of their value and expert craftsmanship, these legbands were also traded as a valuable form of currency.