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In many cultures throughout the world, gold has
been associated with status, power, prestige and
wealth. As early as the 15th century, European
merchants wrote about the richness of African
gold objects used for adornment and intended
for public display. Gold deposits were discovered
in all regions of Africa, and became the most
important commodity during pre- colonial times.
The region of the Akan, spreading from the
forest zone and costal areas of Ghana to the
southern shores of the Ivory Coast, is the richest
auriferous zone in West Africa. Several individual
tribes make up the Akan people, the Asante and
Baule being among the most famous, all united
by their common ancestry and language. The
royal courts of the Akan people were reportedly
the most splendid in Africa. Oral tradition and
iconography in Akan works of art are very closely
connected. Verbal and visual symbolism tells
stories or proverbs. Imagery of royal power on
court ornaments carry out messages that helps
keep the balance and continuity within the
society.
This charming ring depicts a variety of little
objects and animals, including a shell, a crab,
and a locust, closely placed together along the
top of the band. While these have been rendered
in the round, there are also engraved
decorations along the band.
- (CK.0014)
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