Weights to measure figurative gold. Naive pigeons. - Abrammouo - Akan - Côte d'Ivoire (No Reserve Price)

Akan weights used to measure gold powder—employed since the 13th century—called abrammouo in singular and mrammuo in plural, are divided into two categories: geometric weights with symbolic motifs associated with proverbs, and figurative weights carrying messages inspired by flora, fauna, humans, and their artifacts.
They are cast in bronze using the lost wax process. Their color varies depending on the amount of brass or copper used in the alloy with tin. According to G. Niangoran-Bouah - The Akan universe of gold weighing scales, volume II, pages 76-78.

This weight depicts three Guinean roussard pigeons aligned side by side. The heads of the two pigeons on the right and left — which seem to be holding a worm in their beak — are turned towards the central pigeon whose head is raised. Beautiful composition.

The Akan distinguish three groups of birds: 1- The birds of the air - Owlalumin - which rarely touch the ground and perch in trees (eagle, hornbill, turaco, pigeons, doves...).
2- Ground birds - Ahalumin - which include those that peck at the ground (mainly backyard poultry, partridges...). 3- Water birds - Asoalumin - referring to waterfowl and wading birds.

Height 2.2 cm x Width 4.2 cm x Length 3 cm Weight 34 g

Used copper patina. Traces of verdigris.

Send via registered Colissimo.