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1930.44.471

Copper alloy weight for weighing gold in the form of two knots. [MJD 15/06/2011]

1930.44.471

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Collection type
Object
Description
Copper alloy weight for weighing gold in the form of two knots. [MJD 15/06/2011]
Geographical reference
Ghana
Africa > Western Africa > Ghana
Ashanti
Cultural groups
Asante
Person
Field collector Robert Powley Wild
PRM source Robert Powley Wild
Date / Period
Date made: Before 1930
Date collected
By 1930
Acquisition information
Donated: 1930
Materials and processes
Material Copper Alloy Metal, Process Lost Wax Cast
Dimensions
Width: max 11 mm, Length: max 36 mm, Weight 11 g
Object numbers
Accession number: 1930.44.471
Research and responses

According to de Kolb (1968) Ashanti Goldweights No.1, Gallery d'Hautbarr: New York, page 66 the story relating to elaborate knots is 'Suman: the most popular charm used in various religious cults by the Ashanti, or worn on their person for good luck. Coils of rope or complex knots are often reproduced as gold weights.' [MJD 24/06/2011]

Search terms: Measurement, Gold Weight

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