Goldweight of a dung beatle

An exceptionally detailed goldweight in the form of a large beetle — likely a dung beetle or ground beetle (Scarabaeidae or related family) — naturalistically rendered with a domed, longitudinally ribbed elytra (wing case), a broad pronotal shield, articulated head with visible mandibles, and stubby legs. The base shows a secondary face or figural element on the ventral side, suggesting this may have served a dual symbolic function. Insect goldweights of this kind were often cast directly from nature: the dried insect was embedded in clay with a wax sprue attached, then fired until the insect's body burned away entirely, leaving a hollow void into which molten metal was poured — an extraordinarily direct form of nature casting. The surface carries a rich, layered patina of deep brown and malachite green, consistent with age and use. The ribbed detailing on the elytra is rendered with remarkable fidelity. In Akan and related societies, organic forms in goldweights recall the dialogue between humanity and nature, and the choice of animal was rarely arbitrary — each shape was intentional, often encoding a proverb or moral lesson.

Late 19th / early 20th century
Cast copper alloy (brass)
Length: 2 in, 5 cm
Provenance:

Irena Corwin. Irena Corwin was a ballet dancer and actress who later became a jewelry designer in New York in the 1960s and 1970s. She went to Europe to acquire objects to incorporate into her jewelry.

Item Number:
987
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