The leadership of the Asante Empire, with its multiple states and elaborate hierarchy, were patrons of a complex of regalia, symbols, and proverbs that reflected upon the royal status, grandeur, and personal qualities of the sovereign. Historically, only royals and members of their entourage could possess precious metals like locally mined gold (sika) and imported silver. Akan gold production likely began in the second half of the fifteenth century, yielding approximately fourteen million ounces of metal by 1900. Gold circulated in powdered form (sika futuro) as the currency of the Asante Empire and many of its neighbors until 1901; when not accumulated as a form of personal wealth, gold dust was melted down and cast into fashionable ornaments. Provenance: Scanzi Collection, Italia