An Asante Bracelet, "benkun benfra" Two-piece bangle, "benkun benfra" Asante, Ghana Mit Sockel / with base Gold alloy of low fineness and a surface with finished gilding of high fineness. W 13.5 cm. Provenance: - American private collection, Detroit. - Gallery Walu, Zurich (2013). - 2017: Swiss private collection, Schwyz. For centuries, the valuable precious metal from the former "Gold Coast" of Africa was the object of interest and desire of African and European merchants. Trade led to the rise of powerful states whose wealth and skill in gold processing became legendary. The local royal courts produced masterful pieces of jewelry, many of which were made using the lost wax technique. Even today, gold jewelry serves as a sign of the royal families' rank and affiliation. The powerful expressiveness of these unique pieces reflects the rich metaphors of the Asante and is based on the tradition of the highly esteemed art of oratory. The motifs depicted always refer to people, animals or objects that allegorically represent praiseworthy qualities and sayings. The "benkun benfra" bracelet is traditionally worn by regents on the left arm. The insignia refers to the lineage and rank of the wearer, who is believed to be protected from negative forces by the power of the jewelry. Further reading: Ross, Doran and Eisner, Georg (2008). The gold of the Akan. Museum Liaunig. Neuhaus: Museum Administration Ltd. CHF 2 000 / 4 000 Weight in grams: 618 Condition: The condition (any wear, signs of use, tears, any other deterioration and the signs of age, etc.) of this lot can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. If you have any questions about this item, please do not hesitate to contact Hammer Auctions ([email protected]). The information regarding the condition of the items provided for the convenience of interested parties is an opinion only and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Hammer Auctions accepts no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund provided they notify Hammer Auctions within 5 days of receiving the lot.