A group of 4 brass/bronze tribal figures, which I bought as part of a collection. Obviously hand-made. I was told that they are "Ashanti gold weights", and that gold weights were created and used in parts of Africa (e.g. Ghana and Ivory Coast) and were part of the Akan-Ashanti tribal culture. Apparently these figures are made of brass or bronze. I don't know anything about these figures' age or provenance. I'll try to describe each:

1. (This one's my personal favorite in this group, I think.) Figure of a standing person. There's no visible head. Instead there's what appears to be a headdress, on the front of which seems to be a snake. (The snake is approx. 1.7" long.) The hands of this figure are supported by fairly rigid wires which are connected to the base. This figure is approx. 2.9" high at its highest point.

2. Figure of what seems to be a woman, stirring something in a large container/cauldron with some sort of long, thick stick/implement. At her feet, at front-right, a smaller bowl sits on the ground. This figure is approx. 2" high at its highest point.

3. Figure of a woman carrying a large bowl or basket, supported by her left arm. This figure is approx. 2.125" high at its highest point.

4. Figure of a standing man (he has a beard) wearing robes, holding a pole with a crescent-shaped top. Maybe supposed to be some sort of chieftain, elder, or shaman (?). This figure is approx. 2.75" high at its highest point.


I know nothing about Ashanti weights other than what I've seen on-line. Some miscellaneous write-ups have included the following information, none of which I can personally vouch for (sorry):

"...Miniature brass or bronze sculptures used by the Akan-speaking people of modern-day Ghana and the Ivory Coast between the 14th and early 20th centuries. They served as a standardized measurement system for weighing gold dust, which was the primary currency of the Ashanti Empire..." and "...These primitive handcrafted weights originate from Africa, specifically Ghana, and are made of brass. The figurines showcase traditional African culture of weighing gold dust making them a decorative and culturally significant piece for any collector or enthusiast of African antiques. Each weight is hand-forged, adding to their unique and authentic charm..."

These are really cool things, I think... What a happy little group!!!

Note: I've taken photos as best my poor little camera can manage. If you need other images or information, I encourage you to contact me before purchasing. Thanks.

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