Vintage Iron Snake, Mali, 1960s

A small, handmade iron African snake with an expressive, twisted body and its head turned back. Circa mid-20th century (possibly earlier), the piece shows the irregularities and patina of handworked metal. It may be an Ashanti mbramoo—an example of a traditional gold weight used to measure gold dust—though attribution is not certain. Each example is one of a kind; finish, dimensions, and minor imperfections will vary. Vintage condition shows surface wear and age. Approx. 4.25 × 1.5 × 0.25 inches. Item ID AB00130.