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Asafo Flagca. 1863; Ghana, Akan, Fante; Cloth; 101.6 x 182.9 cm (40 in. x 6 ft.); Founders Society Purchase, Acquisition Fund; 83.17 |
Asafo flags such as this were owned collectively by Fante military organizations of Ghana. They were commissioned by each captain for the day of his investiture and were also displayed and danced on special occasions such as the royal yam festival and at funerals. The appliqué and embroidered designs on both sides of the flag show figures casting a net in which a large fish is caught. The message is: Europeans erected a strong stone fort (Anomabu Fort) but Africans can use many men to "catch" the fort. | |
