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53

Pair of wrought-iron Middle Passage shackles.

Single long bar of 10 1/2 inches, one end flattened, the other with an opening where it would be attached to a "coffle" or large chain; two circular pieces, each 3 1/2 inches in diameter fitting over the bar, for wrists or ankles to fit through; some rust and pitting consistent with age. Np (but probably West Africa), mid to late 18th century

  • Notes: The Middle Passage was the crossing from the West Coast of Africa to the sugar islands of the West Indies or coastal ports in the United States. This type of shackle is one of the earliest types used in the infamous triangular Atlantic slave trade.

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February 26, 2004 12:00 AM EST
New York, NY, US

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