Antique Akan Brass Goldweight – Geometric Design (1800s)

Antique Akan Brass Goldweight – Geometric Design (1800s)

This exquisite antique Akan goldweight from the 1800s exemplifies the rich cultural heritage of the Ashanti people of Ghana. Crafted using the traditional lost wax casting technique, this brass goldweight features a distinctive geometric design, reflecting the artistry and symbolism integral to Akan society.

• Dimensions: 19 mm x 13 mm x 9 mm
• Weight: 15.5 grams
• Material: Brass
• Condition: Very good, with minor wear indicative of its age and use

Akan goldweights, known locally as mrammou or abrammuo, were essential tools in the pre-colonial West African economy. Used to measure gold dust the primary currency of the time these antique goldweights ensured fair trade and were often personalized, reflecting the owner's status and identity. The geometric patterns not only served functional purposes but also conveyed proverbs and cultural narratives, embedding moral and philosophical meanings into everyday transactions.

The lost wax method employed in creating this goldweight involves sculpting a model in wax, encasing it in a clay mold, and then heating it to melt away the wax, leaving a cavity into which molten brass is poured. This technique allows for intricate designs and has been a hallmark of Akan metalwork for centuries.

This goldweight is not only a functional artifact but also a testament to the Ashanti's sophisticated artistry and their intricate system of weights and measures that underpinned a vibrant trade network.

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