1 minute read
Communicating value
from Encounters
We value artworks in different ways as they are part of social practices, or part of museum collections. The Asante goldweights, called mrammuo, played a role in Asante trade. Before colonisation, Asante traders would exchange goods for their value in gold dust, carefully measured using the mrammuo The mrammuo were made of brass. The patterns and imagery on the mrammuo refer to Asante proverbs. The mrammuo were a means to trade and communicate subtle messages through speaking in proverbs.
Let’s talk
Describe some visual similarities between the symbols and images in the mrammuo and the Kente fabrics made by Asante artists.
Why do you think that nations take so much care designing currency?
On 4 May 2023 the South African Reserve Bank introduced new designs on notes and coins. What is your favourite new South African money?
