Gold-dust Scale
Akan
Description
Subject Matter:
Lightweight scales (nsania) such as this one would have been used to weigh gold-dust (sika futura) by Akan-speaking peoples in Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. Prior to British colonial control, gold-dust was used as currency, measured on scales against gold-weights that could take many forms. Great skill was necessary to use the scales accurately, as even the slightest amount of wind could increase the weight of the dust, or else blow it away.
References Cited:
McLeod, Malcolm D. 1981. The Asante. London: British Museum Publications Ltd.
Physical Description:
Gold-dust scale in three parts. There are two round pans, one larger than the other, and a horizontal beam. The pans each have three holes around the outer edge and an incised circle at the center of each pan. The horizontal beam has a central square projection with a small hole and two hooks on either end.
Usage Rights:
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