Miscellaneous Mixed Brass Ghana Goldweights MATTER COLLECTION
Description
Miscellaneous mixed brass goldweights from Ghana, traditionally used by the Akan people to measure gold dust in trade. Merchants used small balance scales, placing a weight on one side and gold dust on the other until it balanced. Cast in a variety of shapes such as animals, figures, and geometric forms, these miniature objects reflect everyday life and cultural symbolism while also serving as practical tools in historic trade.
Provenance: Matter Collection
From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.
Object Size: 7 pieces ranging from 10-26mm
153613
Approximate Age: 20th century
Country of Origin: Africa
Size Details
Material
Condition
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.