Mar 27, 2014 - Sale 2342

Sale 2342 - Lot 8

Price Realized: $ 4,750
?Final Price Realized includes Buyer’s Premium added to Hammer Price
Estimate: $ 2,000 - $ 3,000
(SLAVERY AND ABOLITION--RESTRAINTS AND PUNISHMENTS--AFRICA.) Pair of wrought-iron African ankle shackles, with the original heavy locking device attached; lacks the 'key' or means of unlocking. Very elaborately made, with incised designs on all parts, 34 inches long, consisting of a two-piece cuff-like section at one end, and another cuff-like piece and locking device at the other; connected by three very heavy and elaborately incised links; all portions of this pair of shackles bear designs that are consistent with classic West African graphic signs and symbols; all surfaces with fine old, smooth patina. West Africa, circa 18th to 19th century

Additional Details

an unusually elaborate and heavy pair of african shackles, bearing incised designs that are consistent with those illustrated in Clementine M. Faik-Nzuji's definitive book 'Tracing Memory. A Glossary of Graphic Signs and Symbols in African Art and Culture.' (Canadian Museum of Civilization, 1996). A repeated design, not unlike the symbol for 'bond,' 'imprisonment,' and 'handcuffs' appears on this pair of shackles. Provenance: private collection.