Kojo Bonsu. Finial of a Spokesperson’s Staff

The Finial of a Spokesperson’s Staff was the Ashanti ruler’s messenger and served to warn against the abuse of power, represented specifically by the figure at the head of the staff. It was carved around 1960-1970, and was, overall, a symbol of leadership. The carrier was clearly in a powerful position. The tradition has extended to even today, seeing as some professors and instructors still use similar statue representations of their authority. The figure at the head is carved to look like the Ashanti himself. The figure holds an egg in his right hand, representing political authority; easy to break and easy to drop.

Nankani Compound Sirigu, Ghana 1972

The Nankani Compound served housing for men an women; the former residing in the rectangular housing, the latter residing in the rounded housing. The men’s housing were placed near the entrance to protect the shrine, and each compound had it’s own protective wall. Each compound faces toward the entrance serving to focus on the shrine.

Both of these reflections speak to the focus on power in the late African movement. By focusing on the shrine and using painted symbolism, the compound directs energy in a positive way. The staff serves more as a warning, yet still focus attention were it needs to be focus, toward leadership and authority.