Mbole Lance Central Africa; Democratic Republic of the Congo; Mbole Iron 21 15/16 x 8 5/8 x 13/16 ins. (55.7 x 21.9 x 20.1 cm) This distinctive, ornamental, currency spear, represents bridewealth or dowry. The lance would be placed in the ground in front of the bride's home to illustrate a paid dowry. Some, as the one shown, have scrolls on the top and lower edges of the blade.