In the 17th century, the Ashanti, or Akan peoples of Western Africa became the dominant force in the region and one of the richest African kingdoms. Historically the area contained substantial gold deposits and the Ashanti built their strength on the gold trade. This bronze chameleon was used as a counterweight to measure out exact amounts of gold, and gold weights like this were essential tools for trade in West Africa until the end of the 19th century.
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