Gold-weight
Akan
Description
Subject Matter:
A figurative gold-weight in the shape of a pyramid topped by a bird (possibly a chicken) with a curled tail and wings represented by spirals. Birds are a common form of gold-weights and occupy an important symbolic position in various Akan societies, particularly because they bridge the gap between heaven and earth (cf. Sheales, African Goldweights, 2014). Among the Asante, the bird image is common on rings (cf. Garrard, Gold of Africa, 1989, p. 59) worn by elders or chiefs, as well as on swords and linguist staffs (cf. MacLeod, The Asante, 1981, p. 100, 126); moreover, bird and bird symbols are recurrent subjects of Asante proverbs.
Physical Description:
Gold-weight in the shape of six stepped squares topped by a small animal with a head, a curled tail, and a spiral pattern on each side.
Usage Rights:
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