Antique Akan Brass Goldweight – 19th Century Lost Wax Artifact

Antique Ashanti Akan Brass Goldweight – Geometric Lost Wax Weight from 1800s Ghana

This authentic Antique Ashanti Akan Brass Goldweight from 19th-century Ghana exemplifies the artistry and precision of the Ashanti people. Crafted using the traditional lost wax method, this geometric goldweight served as a standard for measuring gold dust, the primary currency of the time. Its dark patina and wear attest to its historical use and age.

• Dimensions: 17 mm x 16 mm x 6 mm
• Weight: 10.8 grams
• Material: Brass
• Technique: Lost wax casting

This piece is not only a functional artifact but also a representation of Ashanti culture and craftsmanship. The geometric design reflects the early period of goldweight production, dating from 1400–1700 AD, where abstract forms were prevalent. Such weights were integral to trade, ensuring fair transactions in gold dust. Beyond their economic function, they often embodied proverbs and cultural narratives, serving as educational tools and symbols of status.

The lost wax method employed in its creation involves sculpting a model in wax, encasing it in clay, and then heating it to melt the wax, leaving a cavity into which molten metal is poured. This technique allows for intricate details and ensures that each piece is unique, as the mold is destroyed during the process.

Owning this goldweight offers a tangible connection to the rich history of the Ashanti people and their sophisticated systems of trade and art.

Explore more handcrafted pieces made using the lost wax method:

• African Brass Beads Collection
• Old Brass and Stone Bracelets Collection