Two weights to weigh the gold. Birds. - Abrammouo. - Akan - Ghana/Ivory Coast

Akan weights for weighing gold dust—used since the 13th century—called abrammouo in the singular and mrammuo in the plural, are divided into two categories: geometric weights with symbolic motifs associated with proverbs, and figurative weights bearing messages inspired by flora, fauna, people, and their artifacts. They are cast in bronze using the lost-wax process. Their color varies according to the amount of brass or copper used in the alloy with tin. According to G. Niangoran-Bouah, L'univers akan des poids à peser l'or, volume II, pp. 76–78. The Akan distinguish three groups of birds: 1- Birds of the air—Owlalumin—which rarely touch the ground and perch in trees (eagles, hornbills, turacos, pigeons, doves...) 2- Birds of the ground—Ahalumin—which include those that peck on the ground (mainly poultry, partridges...) 3- Birds of the water—Asoalumin—which refers to web-footed birds and waders. 1) This weight depicts a female guinea fowl with her chick. Height 3 cm X width 2.8 cm X depth 3.8 cm Weight 35 g 2) This weight depicts a dove-like bird perched atop a three-tier pyramid. Height 3 cm X width 2.8 cm X depth 3.8 cm Weight 35 g 2.2 cm X 2.9 X 3 cm Weight 24 g Age-related patina. Sent by registered Colissimo.

Estimate:$165.35

View all items fromCatawikiorEthnographic