Memorial head · Ghana, Kwahu/Akan · ID: 3040984
Karl-Ludwig Gallwitz, Friedberg, Germany
German Private Collection
Description
terracotta, dyed in black (plant extract), kaolin, hollowed, ornamental decor at the back of the head, slightly dam., minor missing parts (projection on the head), some chips (neck, base);
such memorial heads were created to honour deceased chiefs, queen mothers, and other distinguished leaders. They were placed on special memorial sites as proved by pictures taken around 1900 by the Basler Mission. A characteristic of Kwahu sculpture are disc-shaped heads resting on a ringed neck, both were a symbol of beauty with the Kwahu and strongly remind of the fertility dolls of the Akan.
Comparing literature
Morin, Floriane & Wastiau, Boris (ed.), African Terra Cottas, Geneva 2008, p. 162 f. Schädler, Karl-Ferdinand, Encyclopedia of African Art and Culture, Munich 2009, p. 24 f.
Publications
Schädler, Karl-Ferdinand, Keramik aus Schwarz-Afrika und Alt-Amerika, Zürich 1985, p. 134AHDRC: 0053851
Notices
This object is subject to the UNESCO Cultural Heritage Protection Act. Export documents are required for export (subjected to a fee).