Goldweight [Camel] 19th-20th century

This bronze "Goldweight [Camel]" from the Akan people of Ghana, dating back to the 19th-20th century, is a fascinating example of African art. Goldweights were used to balance scales when weighing gold dust, a significant form of currency at the time. This particular weight is in the form of a camel, reflecting the importance of trade routes and animal imagery in Akan culture. The detailed and stylized depiction of the camel's form speaks to the skilled craftsmanship of the Akan artists. The goldweight, now housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, serves as a testament to the rich history and artistry of the Akan people.