Asante Gold Cowrie Shell, Ghana, Asante Region, Africa, 19th century

Asante Gold Cowrie Shell, Ghana, Asante Region, Africa, 19th century

Hollow lost wax casting in gold of a bead in the shape of a cowrie shell (sedee). The central dome of the shell and the underside are decorated with transverse lines. The shell has a single circular suspension hole cast at one end.

Cowries throughout Africa are symbols of wealth and well-being and, in some parts of West Africa, were used as a form of currency. In Akan communities cast gold cowrie shells were worn by high-status individuals such as the Asantehene, paramount chiefs, royal wives and children as part of anklets, bracelets, necklaces and sandal ornaments to signify that they had access to great wealth.

Ghana, Asante Region

Found during the excavations of the Royal Palace at Kumase

The British Museum, Af,Ash.51