The Asante (also spelled Ashanti) are one of the
many tribes that makes up the greater Akan
peoples. The Akan all share general cultural
trends while maintaining separate tribal
identities, including the Baule, Fanti, Anyi, and
several others. In the 18th century, these tribes
formed a federation that rose up against
European invaders, uniting under the emblem of
a golden stool.
Their society is highly ritualized, with numerous
gods under the main deity known as Onyame
(“the Supreme One”), and a host of lesser gods
(Abosom) who are mostly connected with the
natural world (earth, ocean, rivers, animals etc).
They ruled by Asantahenes, and a host of minor
chiefs who claim royal status through their
connection with the founders of villages and the
land itself. Descent is matrilineal, which is
perhaps why so many of their sculptural works
depict women. They are renowned not only for
their ritual works, but also for their secular and
decorative pieces which – while reflecting
aspects
of ritual and social life – are designed purely for
aesthetic reasons.
Founded in the 14 century. the Asante live today
primarily in the central portion of the nation of
Ghana, and are arguably one of the most
important groups, at least artistically. Their
Akuaba dolls are one of the most celebrated and
recognizable forms of African art. They are also
famed for their goldwork. The Akan consider
gold to be a physical manifestation of life’s vital
force, or “kra.” Throughout the Akan region,
during important ceremonies, it is common to
find royal courts and their entourage festooned
in magnificent gold jewelry, adornments and
other assorted items that speak of their wealth
and power.
This wooden sculpture of a bird eating a grub
has been covered in a thin layer of gold sheet.
Much Akan art represents various parables and
myths. This piece may be one such example.
The texture of the bird's feathery coat has been
suggested by fine lines incised onto the surface
of the sculpture.
