By the early AD 1700s, the Asante had become the most powerful of the Akan peoples. These Asante objects provide context for the Akan drum, giving insights into the wealth and culture of this region of West Africa. Some of the objects were collected by Thomas Bowdich, who visited the Kingdom of Asante in AD 1817 – 18 in order to improve relations between Britain and the Asante.

Gold objects

Asante gold objects including a gold drum.

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Gold weight

Asante gold weight in the form of a drum.

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Stool

Asante wooden stool.

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Sandals and bag

Asante leather sandals and a treasure bag.

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Mourning cloth

Asante mourning cloth made from cotton.

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