Goldweight [Figure Blowing a Side-blown Trumpet] 19th-20th century

This cast brass goldweight of an Akan man presents a visually intriguing form through its compact structure, earthy color, and stylized depiction. The figure is captured in the act of blowing a side-blown trumpet; the smooth, cylindrical form of the instrument intersects the rougher texture of the man's body, creating a compelling contrast. The form of the figure, while representational, is abstracted to simple geometric shapes. The cylindrical legs and torso, combined with spherical head, show a clear reduction to basic forms. Such an approach embodies a semiotic system where each shape acts as a sign, pointing beyond mere physical representation to cultural or symbolic meanings. The artist's choice to depict the figure playing a trumpet may symbolize power, ritual, or communication within Akan society. This piece operates beyond its functional purpose as a weight, inviting ongoing interpretations around cultural identity, aesthetic values, and the role of art as a communicative tool.