19c. African Bronze Snake Serpent Piton Figurine Akan Mali Gana Gold-weight

Description

Up for auction is a rare antique from circa 1800's Africa bronze
Ashanti / Akan brass goldweight / proverb (mrammou) from Ghana / Ivori Coast, snake, 28 grams.
A finely cast figurative gold weight in the shape of a snake with dark patina and smooth surface.
Measures
: 20mm. h. x 33mm x 24mm
weight: 28 grams
The weight, made of brass, used  by the Ashanti / Akan people of West Africa to measure gold dust.
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Here we offer a figurative goldweight in the shape of a snake, excellent cast and adorned with spiral pattern.
Goldweights have been called "masterpieces in miniature" reflecting artistry in service to commerce. The weights are not gold but were used in the trade of gold. Until the end of the nineteenth century, gold (sika) was the currency of the Asante, Fante, Baule and other Akan peoples of Ghana. Used in trade with European merchants along the Ivory coast or Islamic traders from the north, gold dust was measured on small scales called 'nsania' using small copper, bronze or brass sculpted weights known as 'abrammo'. Most people engaging in trade owned a set of weights ranging in appearance from small geometrically patterned weights to complex figurative and representational weights. Cast in the 'lost-wax' technique these small sculptures served to facilitate trade while depicting Akan values characterized through proverbs or popular sayings. Weights would carry traditional proverbial lore or simply show people in everyday activity or comment upon social and political relationships, or to reflect upon religious acts and spiritual ideals. Humans, birds, wild animals, fish, amphibians as well as objects of everyday life were apt subject for representation in weights. Representational imagery derived from contact with Europeans includes ships, rifles and cannon are also found in weights. Goldweights are some of the best known examples of Akan arts reflecting their artistry in small scale but carrying great meaning. The Lost Wax Method is an exceptionally labor intensive process where a wax mold is formed by hand over an open fire until mold is exactly as intended. The wax is then dipped into very fine powdered black mud several times; being allowed to harden between applications; and forming a clay casting around the mold. The clay is then heated until wax melts and is poured out of its casting. Finally, molten brass is poured into the casting replacing the old wax mold.
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Auction terms and conditions.
All my items are true vintage or as described, all authentic and original collectable items. They are described the best way I can.
All questions will be answered on time depending on the time-zone differences.
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Package will be securely wrapped to prevent any damage. If needed in double box.
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1.Connect you to History
The romance to have a piece of history is appealing and has a sense of significance and meaning.
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