A finely cast brass finger ring featuring a stylized bull’s head surmounted by a bird. The bull’s forward-facing head is rendered with simplified geometric forms and subtly engraved surface patterns; pronounced, inwardly curving horns frame the composition. Atop the brow sits a small, upright bird figure oriented forward, commanding attention above the horns. The ring shank is robust and hand formed, with an irregular, organic silhouette consistent with traditional lost-wax casting and long use.

Interpretation/Significance:
This object belongs to a category of Akan proverbial sculpture in which visual metaphors embody moral and philosophical teachings. The composition juxtaposes two potent symbols within Akan cultural thought:

• The Bull: Symbolizes material power, leadership authority, and physical strength. In Akan societal contexts, the horned animal often represents a figure capable of force, dominion, or political stature.

• The Bird: Represents wisdom, foresight, spiritual oversight, and counsel. Birds in Akan visual language signify higher perspective and guiding intelligence.

  The bird’s placement above the horns is essential. It conveys a hierarchical relationship — the intellect must govern the body, and wisdom must temper strength. The ring visually articulates an Akan proverb along the lines of:

  “It is the head that carries the horns,”
  meaning strength without judgment risks self-destruction; power must be guided by wisdom.

  Alternatively: “The intellect sits above force.
  Power must be guided by wisdom.”

  As a personal wearable object, this ring likely functioned as an ethical reminder to its wearer — a leader, elder, or person of status — of the inseparability of authority and thoughtful restraint.

  Condition:
  Surface wear consistent with age and handling; warm patina in recessed areas with softened highlights on raised forms. No modern repairs noted.

  Significance:
  Beyond its sculptural presence, this ring encapsulates Akan epistemology and leadership philosophy. It is a rare example of didactic adornment, where personal ornament embodies a moral imperative.

Date: Late 19th to early 20th century (c. 1880–1930)

We don't know who wore this beautiful, very old, authentic ring but we do know that he was an important man in Ghana or Ivory Coast and he wore it for a long time; it might well have been in the family for longer than the life of the original owner.

This ring was hand cast using the traditional lost wax casting technique as has always been done in Africa. This ring size is just over size 10.