An Asante Beetle-shaped Ornament for Gunbearer's... Lot n° 56

Beetle-shaped decoration for the insignia of the weapon bearers Asante, Ghana Mit Sockel / with base Gold alloy, approx. 12 carat (0.500) with a surface of high gold fineness. H 5.5 cm. Provenance: - Galerie Walu, Zurich. - 1998: Jean David, Basel. Expertise from the Swiss Precious Metals Control (approx. 12 carats with a surface of high gold fineness). For centuries, the valuable precious metal of the former "Gold Coast" of Africa was the object of interest and desire of African and European merchants. Trade led to the rise of powerful states whose wealth and skill in gold processing became legendary. The local royal courts produced masterful pieces of jewelry, many of which were made using the lost wax technique. Even today, gold jewelry serves as a sign of the royal families' rank and affiliation. The powerful expressiveness of these unique pieces reflects the rich metaphors of the Akan and is based on the tradition of the highly esteemed art of oratory. The motifs depicted, here an abstract beetle, always refer to people, animals or objects that allegorically stand for praiseworthy qualities and sayings. Such pieces of jewelry were used to decorate headdresses, bandolier bags, rifles or patron belts of the royal guard Further reading: Ross, Doran and Eisner, Georg (2008). The gold of the Akan. Museum Liaunig. Neuhaus: Museum Administration Ltd. CHF 400 / 800 Weight in grams: 300 Condition: The condition (any wear, signs of use, tears, any other deterioration and the signs of age, etc.) of this lot can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If you have any questions about this item, please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions (info@hammerauktionen.ch). The information regarding the condition of the items provided for the convenience of interested parties is an opinion only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided they notify Hammer Auctions within 5 days of receiving the lot.