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Jewelry, 1800s (cast gold, hammered) (see also 491183)
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Jewelry, 1800s (cast gold, hammered) (see also 491183)
491186 Jewelry, 1800s (cast gold, hammered) (see also 491183) by Asante Culture, (19th century); h:4.30 cm; Cleveland Museum of Art, OH, USA; (add.info.: Shared by different Akan and Akan-related peoples, including the Asante and Baule, gold ornaments indicate status and wealth and are worn at public festivals by titleholders, chiefs, and kings. Most pectoral disks are suspended over the chest by a white, pineapple-fiber cord. They are owned by the okra, a young official who purifies the chiefs soul--hence, the name akrafokonmu, meaning " soul-washers badges" or " soul disks."
); Dudley P. Allen Fund; African, out of copyright
Media ID 22403694
© Dudley P. Allen Fund / Bridgeman Images
Asante Ghana Guinea Coast Hammered Ornament
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EDITORS COMMENTS
This print showcases a stunning piece of jewelry from the 1800s, crafted by the Asante Culture in Ghana. Made of cast gold and hammered to perfection, this intricate ornament represents not only exquisite craftsmanship but also signifies status and wealth within the community. The Akan and Akan-related peoples, including the Asante and Baule, proudly share these gold ornaments as they are worn by titleholders, chiefs, and kings during public festivals. The pectoral disk featured in this image is suspended over the chest using a white pineapple-fiber cord. Known as "soul-washers badges" or "soul disks" these precious accessories hold great significance. They belong to an individual called okra who serves as a young official responsible for purifying the chief's soul. This symbolic role adds depth to their name - akrafokonmu. Displayed at the Cleveland Museum of Art in Ohio, USA, this remarkable piece tells a story of cultural heritage and tradition that has been passed down through generations. Its ornamental pattern showcases both beauty and elegance while reflecting the rich history of Ghana's guinea coast. Through this photograph captured by Bridgeman Images for Fine Art Finder, we can appreciate not only its aesthetic value but also gain insight into how jewelry played a vital role in African cultures during the 19th century.
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