Object Record
Images
Metadata
Title |
Ashanti Weight (Abrammo) |
Object ID |
2007.1.46 |
Collection |
AFRICAN |
Object Name |
Weight, Balance |
Material |
Metal |
Dimensions |
H-8.2 cm |
Description |
Bronze weight used for measuring gold. Object has a looped end, with three raised bands below, then tapers to other end. Body of object is irregular in shape - like a peas pod and has a rough surface. Possibly a Fly Whisk. This weight was donated to the Institute of Jamaica by Mr. Claus Petri in 2006. Ashanti weights, or Abrammo as they are sometimes known, were found in West Africa's Gold Coast area, now known as Ghana. The weights were used to measure out specific quantities of gold and gold dust, which was mined and panned in great quantities within the kingdom and used for trading with outsiders, for making personal adornments, and as an internal currency. The weights and their accoutrements such as boxes, spoons and balances were known as a futoo and wrapped together in cloth. They would then be put into a leather container, a wood box, or if the owner was a wealthy man, a cast-brass kuduo box. These boxes, full of gold dust, could be buried with their owners and dug up again if needed, or hidden in times of trouble. The weights are found in various shapes and forms; the average collection of weights was thought to be about forty, with no specific 'sets' of uniform patterns or motifs. . |
Credit line |
Courtesy: The Institute of Jamaica |
Legal Status |
This image can be used for educational purposes without restrictions. A higher quality image may attract fees. |
Provenance |
Africa |
Web Rights |
In Copyrights |