The medallion may represent a coin, the symbol of commercial transactions. The identity of the individual featured is unclear. The diamond-shaped motifs on his hat suggest he may be Kongo because they are similar to those found on Kongo raffia pile cloth and other objects. These designs also appear on other parts of the tusk. If the scenes depicted allude to both Kongo daily life and death, the tusk may have been carved to commemorate an important individual and his achievements. If so, the person on the medallion may be the individual whose life and activities are celebrated. He could perhaps be a Kongo ruler who reigned during the early days of European exploration and trade.

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