This artefact, collected by António Mesquita in the 19th century, demonstrates the Mandingas’ mastery of leatherwork. The Mandingas, an ethnic group from West Africa, used such items to store valuables, including coins and important documents.
Made entirely of leather and richly decorated with geometric motifs, the bag has a rounded central body comprising two compartments, with two hanging flaps that give it a singular elegance.