Pectoral disc "akrafokonmu" ("soul washers badge")

---

Description

gold leaf, finely chiselled, dam., base

The “Akrafokonmu” are among the most beautiful gold works of the Akan and served in earlier times as a badge of the royal messengers.

Mostly, however, they were carried by the “akrafo”, particularly attractive young men and women born on the same day as the king. By means of their youthful strength and beauty, they should contribute to the ritualistic cleansing and recharging of the life force of the king.

---

Comparing literature

Ross, Doran H., Gold of the Akan from the Glassell Collection, Houston 2002, p. 116, ill. 5-3

---