Goldweight [Bean Pod] 19th-20th century

This small bean pod was made by the Akan people out of brass, a metal prized for its resemblance to gold. These weights were made using the lost wax casting method. First, the artist would have carved the desired shape of the bean pod from wax. Then, they encased it in clay to create a mold. When heated, the wax melts away, leaving a cavity into which molten brass is poured. After cooling, the clay is broken, revealing the final form. The details on the surface indicate an intense relationship with organic forms. These weights were essential tools for accurately measuring gold dust, the currency of the Akan people, and underscore the essential role of craft in facilitating trade and economic activity. By paying attention to the material, making, and context, we recognize the interconnectedness of art, culture, and economy.