Ashanti goldweight, Crippled antelope - Symbol of Flourishing Through Adversity

Gold Weight - Antelope, single piece

Bronze alloy, Ashanti, Ghana, 20th century, size approx 51mm x 17mm x 48mm

Gold weights (known as mrammou) are scales elaborately cast from bronze, to which the weight of the gold dust to be weighed was compared using a balance scale in trade. Until the end of the 19th century, gold (pig) was the traditional currency of the Ashanti, Fante, Baule and other Akan peoples of Ghana. A man's position was weighed according to the number of gold weights. The valuation increased significantly if he had a complete set of weights. This was used to be given to the groom as a wedding gift. The scales ensured that the man could trade honorably and successfully. Skillfully produced, small-scale gold prints depicted meaningful symbols, plants, animals and people.

Wax casting (cire perdue in French) or "disappearing wax" is a mold manufacturing method. In it, wax is molded into the model of an amulet or a desired object. A fireproof mold is made from clay around this. The wax model is removed by melting or burning. The empty space created in the mold is filled with bronze. The mold is broken and a completely unique piece is obtained.

Symbol meaning: 

Antelopes hold many symbolisms in different cultures and contexts. Since antelopes are swift and agile creatures, they generally symbolize speed, mobility, and skill.

However, this particular antelope individual is exceptional, as it has only three legs. The three-legged antelope can symbolize how a person or thing can thrive or succeed despite adversity. It can represent strength and determination to overcome obstacles. The missing leg can also symbolize vulnerability and imperfection, reminding us that everyone has their weaknesses and limitations.

The three-legged antelope may allude to resilience and adaptability, serving as a symbol of the ability to adjust to new situations and overcome difficulties. The missing leg may suggest that we need to develop or strengthen certain aspects of our lives to achieve our full potential. Additionally, the three-legged antelope can be a symbol of community support and solidarity, illustrating how people can assist one another and complement each other's deficiencies.

Ritual use

A gold weight as an amulet can be a powerful symbol when used in ritual or spiritual practice. Here are a few ways you can use it in rituals:

• Centering your consciousness: You can use a gold weight in meditation or at the beginning of a ritual as a centering aid. Hold it in your hands or place it in front of you and focus on its symbolism and meaning. This will help calm your mind and deepen the meditative state.
• Setting an intention: Before starting the ritual, you can hold a gold weight in your hands and set a certain intention or wish on it. Visualize how its power and symbolism reinforce your goal.
• Channeling power: A gold weight can act as a symbol of power. Use it in rituals where you wish to channel its qualities such as protection, growth and transformation. You can hold the amulet in your hands or place it on the altar while you perform the ritual.
• As a ritual object: A gold weight can be a ritual object that you use as part of certain ceremonies or celebrations. You can carry it with you, make it into an amulet worn around your neck, or place it on the altar to emphasize the theme of the ritual.
• A reminder of your spiritual journey: A gold print can also serve as a reminder of your spiritual journey and growth. You can use it daily or whenever needed to remind yourself that you are in constant development and transformation.

When using the power of the gold weight in rituals, remember to create a ritual that feels natural and meaningful to you. This will help you connect the amulet's power to your own purposes and needs.

Note! Skillfully cast from bronze, the amulets are handmade and have been used diligently, j so each of them is its own unique individual. Because of this, colors and shapes may vary. Amulets may be dusty, patinated and may have small surface defects.