Accession Number1997/1.403
TitleGold-weight
Artist(s)AkanArtist NationalityAkan (culture or style)Object Creation Date1900-1985Medium & Supportbrass with threadDimensions 13/16 in x 13/16 in x 1 in (2 cm x 2.1 cm x 2.5 cm)
Credit LineGift of Dr. James and Vivian CurtisSubject matterGold-weight in the shape of a pyramid with a suspension loop and thread attached. This gold-weight may represent an amulet, called a
safi or a
sebe, an Islamic amulet adopted by Akan-speaking peoples around the 14th century (cf. Sheales,
African Goldweights, 2014). Some gold-weights, such as this one, could have had a dual purpose. The loop at the top suggests that this weight could have been worn to "bring good fortune or preserve the wearer from harm" (cf. Garrard,
Akan Weights and the Gold Trade, 1980, p. 201).
Physical DescriptionGold-weight in the shape of a smooth-sided square pyramid, with a small piece of rope attached to the hole on top.
Primary Object Classification Metalwork Primary Object TypegoldweightCollection AreaAfricanRightsIf you are interested in using an image for a publication, please visit
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Keywords
amulets
goldweights
measuring
miniature (size attribute)
pyramids (geometric figures)
weighing devices