Goldweight [Shield] 19th-20th century

This is a gold weight in the shape of a shield, made by the Akan people. In the Akan culture, such a shield transcends mere physical protection, symbolizing bravery, resilience, and preparedness. The geometric patterns are not merely decorative; they carry deeper cultural significance, likely linked to proverbs or historical events, serving as mnemonic devices that connect the Akan people to their history and values. Similar motifs appear across continents and eras, echoing the same primal human needs for safety and identity. Consider the way the shield's protective form mirrors the defensive strategies seen in ancient Greek hoplite shields, or even the heraldic shields of medieval Europe. The presence of this shield-form in these contexts evokes a powerful psychological response, tapping into our innate, ancestral understanding of protection and security. It is a testament to the enduring power of symbols, which, though transformed by time and culture, still resonate with the fundamental aspects of the human experience.