Reproduction Gold Weight

1969.05.0001

Thumbnail of Reproduction Gold Weight (1969.05.0001)

Basic Information

Artifact Identification Reproduction Gold Weight   (1969.05.0001)
Classification/
Nomenclature
  1. Science & Technology T&E
  2. :
  3. Weights & Measures T&E
  4. :
  5. N/A
Artist/Maker Unknown
Geographic Location
Period Independence
Date Mid 20th century
Culture Asante, Ashanti, Akan

Physical Analysis

Dimension 1 (Length) 2.6 cm
Dimension 2 (Width) 2.0 cm
Dimension 3 (Depth) 1.4 cm
Weight 54.76 g
Measuring Remarks N/A
Materials Metal--Bronze
Manufacturing Processes Cast

Research Remarks

Description

WEIGHING THE GOLD: The gold weights of the Ashanti were part of the international trade routes. The gold rich Ashanti used these weights, made of wood, seeds or metal, to weigh gold dust for domestic and foreign trade for commodities like salt. Gold weights were a part of every businessman's equipment. (21) Geometric gold weights came in many sizes to weigh out precise measures of gold. Brass. 69.5.1, 6-11.

Published Description Under Review
Bibliography

Cole, Herbert M. and Doran H. Ross. The Arts of Ghana. Los Angeles: University of California, 1977.

de Kolb, Eric. Ashanti Goldweights.Gallery d’Hautbarr. New York, NY: 1968.

Artifact History

Credit Line/Dedication Gift of Oscar H. Dodson
Reproduction Yes

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