Antique Ashanti Geometric Brass Goldweight – Lost Wax, 1800s Ghana

Antique Ashanti Geometric Brass Goldweight – 1800s Ghana

This exquisite Akan goldweight originates from the Ashanti people of southern Ghana and dates back to the 1800s. Meticulously crafted using the ancient lost wax technique, this brass artifact showcases a geometric design, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Ashanti civilization.

• Dimensions: 21 mm x 9 mm x 8 mm
• Weight: 9 grams

The goldweight boasts a beautiful dark patina, indicative of its age and the countless transactions it has witnessed. Such artifacts were integral to the Ashanti economy, serving as standardized measures for gold dust, the primary currency of the time.

Historical Significance

Among the Ashanti, goldweights, known locally as mrammou or abrammuo, were more than mere tools for trade. They were symbols of status and wealth, often passed down through generations. The geometric designs, prevalent in earlier periods, were later complemented by figurative motifs representing proverbs, animals, and daily life, encapsulating the values and beliefs of the Akan people.

The Lost Wax Casting Technique

The lost wax method, or cire perdue, is a time-honored casting process. Artisans would sculpt a detailed model of the desired object in beeswax, encase it in a clay mold, and then heat it to melt away the wax, leaving a cavity. Molten brass was then poured into this cavity. Once cooled, the clay mold was broken away, revealing the final piece. This technique allowed for intricate designs and ensured each goldweight was unique.

For collectors and enthusiasts of African art and history, this antique goldweight offers a tangible connection to the Ashanti's rich cultural tapestry and their sophisticated trade systems.

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