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Catalog Data

Maker:
Akan artist  Search this
Medium:
Copper alloy, cord, iron, plastic
Dimensions:
Overall: 17.3 x 18.8 x 0.3 cm (6 13/16 x 7 3/8 x 1/8 in.)
Dish: 4.2 x 4.2 x 0.3cm (1 5/8 x 1 5/8 x 1/8in.)
Type:
Sculpture
Geography:
Ghana
Date:
18th-late 19th century
Label Text:
Simple beam scales were used for weighing gold dust. Skill was required to use them, as one had to be wary of the wind and human tampering.
Description:
Scale with copper alloy dishes with incised circles and half-circles, off-white cord connects them through their three holes to the copper alloy bar that has cord and plasticized screw at center
Content Statement:
As part of our commitment to accessibility and transparency, the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art is placing its collection records online. Please note that some records are incomplete (missing image or content descriptions) and others reflect out-of-date language or systems of thought regarding how to engage with and discuss cultural heritage and the specifics of individual artworks. If you see content requiring immediate action, we will do our best to address it in a timely manner. Please email nmafacuratorial@si.edu if you have any questions.
Image Requests:
High resolution digital images are not available for some objects. For publication quality photography and permissions, please contact the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives at https://africa.si.edu/research/eliot-elisofon-photographic-archives/
Topic:
male  Search this
Trade  Search this
Credit Line:
Gift of the Roy and Brigitta Mitchell Collection
Object number:
2010-10-200
Restrictions & Rights:
Usage conditions apply
See more items in:
National Museum of African Art Collection
Data Source:
National Museum of African Art
GUID:
http://n2t.net/ark:/65665/ys79e2868e8-e125-4f05-845c-7a222ba3aaf8
EDAN-URL:
edanmdm:nmafa_2010-10-200