Ceremonial swordGhana, Ashanticorroded metal, dark patina, two parted, elaborate open-worked blade,
Ceremonial swordGhana, Ashanticorroded metal, dark patina, two parted, elaborate open-worked blade, a wooden handle covered with gold foil underneath, carved with two knobs with short appendages, dam., missing part (left blade tip together with stools, swords are the most important Akan regalia. Politically, its most important function is the instoolment of a chief, sub-chiefs hold other swords when swearing allegiance to a new chief. Others are used in religious purification rituals for a chief’s soul. Swords are also common as shrine and stool room furniture, protecting the shrines and deriving their power from the gods. -- source link
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