Antique Ashanti Pyramid Brass Goldweight – Lost Wax Cast

Antique 1800s Ashanti Pyramid Brass Goldweight – Lost Wax Cast

This rare Antique Ashanti Pyramid Goldweight from the 1800s is a striking example of West African craftsmanship. Hand-cast in brass using the traditional lost wax technique, it features a geometric pyramid form and a rich, dark patina developed over centuries of use.

• Size: 18 mm x 17 mm x 11 mm
• Weight: 13.07 grams
• Material: Brass
• Condition: Very good, with age-related wear

This goldweight, known locally as abrammuo or mrammou, was part of the Ashanti's intricate system for measuring gold dust, which served as currency. Its pyramid shape reflects the Ashanti's appreciation for geometric forms and symbolizes stability and strength.

The Role of Goldweights in Ashanti Culture

In pre-colonial Ghana, the Ashanti people conducted trade using gold dust, necessitating precise measurement tools. Goldweights like this one were essential for fair transactions, with over 60 standardized units in use. Each weight was part of a personal set carried in a futuo a bag containing scales, scoops, and brushes used daily in markets and trade.

Beyond their practical use, goldweights held cultural significance. They often depicted proverbs, animals, or objects, serving as visual representations of Ashanti beliefs and values. Owning a complete set was a status symbol, and weights were commonly given as gifts to mark significant life events.

The Lost Wax Casting Technique

The lost wax method, or cire perdue, is an ancient casting process. Artisans sculpted a model in beeswax, encased it in clay, and heated it to melt the wax, leaving a cavity. Molten brass was then poured into this mold. Once cooled, the clay was broken away, revealing a unique brass object. This technique allowed for intricate designs and ensured that each goldweight was one-of-a-kind.

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