Ashanti Gold Weights

Definition

Ashanti gold weights are small, intricately crafted objects made of brass or iron used by the Ashanti people of Ghana to measure gold dust as a form of currency. These weights are not only functional but also artistic, featuring a variety of designs that reflect the cultural values, beliefs, and social structures of the Ashanti society. As objects of trade and art, they have significantly influenced Western modernism by introducing unique African aesthetic principles and forms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Ashanti gold weights were used primarily in trade to measure gold dust, which was a key currency in the Ashanti Empire.
2. The design of each gold weight often reflects specific themes from Ashanti culture, including animals, human figures, and everyday objects, showcasing both artistry and functionality.
3. These weights played a crucial role in the economic system of the Ashanti people by providing a reliable method for trading precious resources.
4. The introduction of Ashanti gold weights to Western art movements contributed to the appreciation and incorporation of African design elements into modernist artworks.
5. Many contemporary artists draw inspiration from the forms and aesthetics of Ashanti gold weights, demonstrating their lasting impact on visual culture.

Review Questions

• How do Ashanti gold weights illustrate the intersection of art and commerce within the Ashanti culture?
  • Ashanti gold weights serve as both practical tools for measuring gold dust and as artistic expressions that reflect cultural values. The intricate designs on these weights are not only functional but also convey social status and narrative elements important to the Ashanti people. This dual role highlights how art can embody economic practices while also representing identity and heritage within a society.
• Discuss how Ashanti gold weights have influenced Western modernism and provide examples of this influence in contemporary art.
  • Ashanti gold weights introduced unique aesthetic principles to Western modernism by showcasing non-Western forms and designs that prioritize symbolism and craftsmanship. Artists such as Pablo Picasso acknowledged African art's impact on their work, particularly in the use of abstract forms reminiscent of the shapes found in gold weights. This cross-cultural exchange not only broadened artistic vocabulary but also encouraged new ways of seeing and interpreting art in a global context.
• Evaluate the significance of Ashanti gold weights as cultural artifacts in understanding broader themes of trade and value in African societies.
  • Ashanti gold weights are significant cultural artifacts that provide insight into the complexities of trade, value systems, and artistic expression within African societies. They illustrate how tangible objects can embody both economic utility and cultural identity. By studying these weights, we gain a deeper understanding of how value is constructed beyond mere monetary measures—highlighting social hierarchy, craftsmanship, and community beliefs within the Ashanti Empire. This perspective contributes to a richer narrative about Africa's historical role in global trade networks.

Related terms

Adinkra Symbols: Visual symbols that represent concepts or aphorisms, used in Ashanti textiles and pottery, which also influence modern design aesthetics.

Kente Cloth: A brightly colored and patterned textile made by the Ashanti people, symbolizing wealth and cultural identity, which has impacted contemporary fashion.

Gold Dust: The form of currency used in the Ashanti economy, measured using the gold weights, illustrating the intersection of art and commerce.