Goldweight Depicting a Pyramid

AsanteWW-1800-142558

1800·Copper alloy·1.8 × 1.8 × 1.8 cm (7/8 × 7/8 × 7/8 in.)

<p>In the 15th century, Akan gold weights were introduced as standard units of measure to regulate the extensive trade in gold mined in Kumasi and transported across Saharan trade routes. These weights were cast using the lost-wax method into various motifs and forms. Although they were regularly melted down and recast, historical motifs—such as the pyramid—were reintroduced and used throughout the pre-colonial era.</p>

Catalogue

Year: 1800
Medium: Copper alloy
Dimensions: 1.8 × 1.8 × 1.8 cm (7/8 × 7/8 × 7/8 in.)
Collection: Art Institute of Chicago
Artist: Asante

Artist

Asante

Asante is both an Ashanti surname and a masculine Ashanti given name. Notable people with the Ashanti name include:

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