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Overview
Embodying one of the most revered Adinkra symbols of West African philosophy, this vintage Akan (Ashanti) lost-wax cast brass statement ring features a sculpted Sankofa bird. Hand-cast using the ancientcire perduetechnique, the ring depicts the iconic avian figure reaching backward over its body to retrieve a sacred egg resting upon its back, supported by a textured open-back brass band. Designed as both a meaningful piece of wearable tribal jewelry and a desktop sculptural artifact, this heavy brass ring brings profound cultural lineage and tactile presence to curated collections. Complimentary, fully insured standard shipping is included with purchase.
Deep Cultural & Historical Background
In Akan and Ashanti oral traditions, the Sankofa bird illustrates the famous proverb:\"Se wo bere fi na wosankofa a yenkyi\"—translating to \"It is not wrong to go back for that which you have forgotten.\" The motif depicts a bird with its feet planted firmly forward while its head turns backward to nurture or retrieve a precious egg, symbolizing the vital importance of learning from past ancestral wisdom to build a purposeful future. Historically worn by dignitaries and court elders during festival durbars, Sankofa brass rings served as visual proverbs of statecraft and personal humility. Master metalsmiths fashioned the form in beeswax, encased it in a clay mold, and replaced the wax with molten brass, ensuring each casting remains an irreplaceable original.
Condition & Surface Character
The ring retains an authentic, warm golden-brass surface with mellowed oxidation nestled within the concentric, carved feather grooves of the bird\'s body. The open split-shank band remains sturdy, retaining its structural flexibility for minor size adjustments. Micro-venting features and organic casting textures on the underside affirm traditional lost-wax foundry techniques.
Dimensions, Shipping & Display
Height:2.0 inches (Top of bird head to base of band)
Width:1.8 inches (Bezel span from beak to tail)
Depth:1.0 inch (Crown depth)
Ring Sizing:Adjustable Open Shank (Currently set to approximately US Size 10.5–11.5)
Weight Profile:Heavyweight Cast Brass
