Early Arts African Art Ghana Togo Ivory Coast Dinanderie Akrafokonmu Akan Soul Disc

EARLY ARTS AFRICAN ARTS DINANDERIE WEST AFRICA TOGO-GHANA-IVORY COAST DINANDERIE-JEWELRY AKRAFOKONMU-SOUL DISK-PURIFIER LOST WAX BRONZE LATE 19TH CENTURY. Bronze pectoral "soul" disc decorated with intertwined geometric motifs, stylized cowrie shells in a double circle, on a spotted/spotted background with a central circle/dome, itself circumscribed within a spotted circle. Ashanti or Baoulé people/ethnic group of the Akan group. These discs are worn during ritual ceremonies or festivities. They are also assimilated to the wearer's soul and are considered purifying. Village chiefs, kings (Asantehene) also wore these Akrafokonmu, in gold for their parts, like a symbol of their power, like a radiant sun, source of the "kra" (soul) among the Akan. Good condition in used condition (marks, gaps, traces; see descriptive photos). Sold attached to its wooden support. Total weight: 171 grams.