Description:

West Africa, Ghana, Asante or Akan culture, ca. late 19th to mid-20th century CE. This is an interesting and erotic figural bass weight of a couple, cast using the lost wax method. They stand upon an integral ring that has a stable foot base. The woman is forward, nude. Her head has applied eyes and a pinched nose. Her head is incised to indicate her tight coiffure. Standing behind her is presumably a male figure with his waist pressed against her back and is hands resting on her shoulders. This piece may have been part of a gold weight set, and traditionally they weights were given to a newly wed man. Each weight may be cast in a zoomorphic, or figural forms to symbolize proverbs, to ensure prosperity, or fertility - like this engaged couple! Size: 1" W x 3.5" H (2.5 cm x 8.9 cm)

Provenance: ex-private Lone Jack, Missouri, USA collection

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#169297

  • Condition: Losses to second figure including head and shoulders. Surface abrasions, pitting, and minor nicks. Green and russet patina. Dark toning throughout.

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June 15, 2022 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000