West African Akan-Attributed Bronze Zoomorphic Bracelet, Ghana / Côte d’Ivoire, Lost-Wax Cast

A small cast bronze penannular bracelet surmounted by a stylised quadruped, attributed to the Akan cultural sphere of southern Ghana and neighbouring Côte d’Ivoire. Such miniature bracelets functioned as personal adornment and occasionally as markers of status or identity, echoing the broader Akan metalworking tradition in which animal imagery conveyed authority and social symbolism.

The piece was produced using the lost-wax casting technique characteristic of West African brass industries. Surface wear, smooth handling marks, and darkened patina indicate long use and age. Objects of this scale are collected alongside goldweights and personal ornaments as representative examples of regional metal artistry and everyday prestige objects.

Circa 18th to 19th century

PROVENANCE - Egon Guenther collection

MEASUREMENTS
Outer diameter: 4.69 cm
Inner diameter: 3.59 cm
Weight: 24 g