Gold weight, lame antelope - Symbol of prosperity through hardship

Golden weight - lame antelope, single piece

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

Gold weights (known as mrammou) are elaborately cast bronze weights, to which the weight of the gold dust being weighed was compared using a balance scale in trade. Until the late 19th century, gold (siga) was the traditional currency of the Ashanti, Fante, Baule and other Akan peoples of Ghana. A man's status was measured by the number of gold weights. His status increased significantly if he had a complete set of weights. This was often given to the groom as a wedding gift. The weights ensured that the man could trade honorably and successfully. The elaborately made, small gold weights depicted meaningful symbols, plants, animals and people.

Lost wax casting (French: cire perdue) or "lost wax" is a mold making method. In it, a model of an amulet or desired object is molded from wax. A fireproof mold is made of 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, resulting in a completely unique piece.

Symbol meaning

Antelopes have many symbolic meanings in different cultures and contexts. Because antelopes are fast and agile animals, they often symbolize speed, mobility, and dexterity.

However, this individual antelope is exceptional because it only has three legs. A three-legged animal can symbolize how a person or thing can flourish or succeed despite adversity. It can represent strength and determination to overcome obstacles. A missing leg can also symbolize vulnerability and imperfection. It can remind us that everyone has weaknesses and limitations. A three-legged antelope can refer to renewal and adaptability. It can symbolize the ability to adapt to new situations and overcome difficulties. A missing leg can indicate that we need to develop or strengthen certain areas of our lives in order to reach our full potential. A three-legged animal can also symbolize community support and solidarity. It can depict how people can help each other and complement each other’s shortcomings.

Ritual use

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

• Focusing your awareness: You can use a gold weight in meditation or at the beginning of a ritual as a focus 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 your meditative state.
• Setting an intention: Before beginning the ritual, you can hold the gold weight in your hands and place a specific intention or wish on it. Visualize how its power and symbolism will strengthen your goal.
• Channeling Power: The gold weight can act as a symbol of power. Use it in rituals where you want to channel its properties such as protection, growth, and transformation. You can hold the amulet in your hands or place it on your altar while performing 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 to wear around your neck, or place it on an altar to emphasize the theme of the ritual.
• Spiritual Journey Reminder: A gold weight can also serve as a reminder of your spiritual journey and growth. You can wear it daily or as often as needed to remind yourself that you are in a constant process of evolution 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! The amulets, skillfully cast from bronze, are handmade and have been used extensively, and Each amulet is unique. Therefore, colors and shapes may vary. The amulets may be dusty, patinated and may have small surface defects.