Goldweight [Root] 19th-20th century

This goldweight, made by the Akan people, presents an intriguing study in form and material. The rough, textured surface of the metal suggests both durability and the natural processes of erosion, evoking a sense of timelessness. The compact, vertical composition resembles a root, a potent symbol across many cultures. The branching extensions invite a semiotic interpretation, representing growth, connection, and the unseen networks beneath the surface. Consider how the sculpture’s small scale transforms the grand idea of nature into something intimate and manageable. The materiality of gold, with its inherent value and cultural associations with wealth and power, adds another layer. It challenges us to question fixed meanings around value, representation, and the relationship between natural forms and human-made artifacts. Through this careful manipulation of shape, texture and symbolic form, the artist destabilizes our understanding of value and nature.