This cast brass vessel, known as kuduo, exemplifies the sophisticated craftsmanship prized by the wealthier Ashanti (Asante) people of Ghana. Traditionally used to store precious items like ritual objects and gold dust, some kuduos were buried with individuals of high status, while others held a mixture of shea butter and gold dust used to adorn the corpses of esteemed chiefs. Characterized by its cylindrical body and brass legs forming a ring foot, this vessel features a lid adorned with brass figures. One larger figure sits under a parasol, encircled by four smaller figures, each with unique attributes (blowing horn, sticks, shield). Additionally, the sides of the container boast intricate relief designs depicting figures climbing ladders. This kuduo likely served as a repository for gold dust, which served as currency for everyday transactions. The negotiation process involved not only determining the value of goods in gold dust, but also comparing weights, discussing the purity of the gold, and ensuring fair scales, a process even necessary for rudimentary transactions like purchasing vegetables in a street market. Gold held significant economic importance, contributing to Ghana's historical moniker, the Gold Coast. This particular kuduo, dating from the mid-20th century, remains in excellent condition, a testament to its enduring cultural and historical significance.