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traditional buildings in ghana

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nsafoasa

Nsafoasa: ( a set of three keys). A set of three things (keys) Symbolize a wish for wholeness,pefection in life situation; and also love and affection

Funtunfunafu

Sekan: (knife). Inspired by the practical utility of knives. Symbolizes practically, efficiency, productivity, craftsmanship, sharpness of mind and tongue

Odenkyem

Ekye: (a hat). Inspired by social uses of hats. The elders say " as long as you have a head on you cannot avoid wearing a hat Symbolizes status and responsibility.

Bi-nka-bi

Adwa (Stool) "Have a seat if you are going to talk about me". Symbol of hospitality and also of warning against false accusations.

Kramo-bone

Donowa (ampit talking drum). Symbolizes praise, adoration, oral history & poetic eloquence.

Osrane

A variation of Donowa ( an ampit talking drum), but in this case it represents ( a spool) a device inserted in a heddle pulley for efficient operation. It symbolizes efficiency & interdependency.

Nsaa

Atwedie : (ladder/steps) means for acheiving greater heights. It is also associated with human mortality which affects all. It symbolizes human mortality, and also perseverance and advancement

Fofoo

Afe : (comb). A tool for grooming and for enhancement of physical appearance. Symbolizes perfection, improvement, beauty, excellence, love, caring, patience and prudence.

Adinkra

A version of Afe (comb)

Dwanimen

Ntabon (Oars). Inspired by the practical utility of oars. A boat can only move by a united action of oarmens. Symbol of unity, perserverance, achievment, production and progress.

Mpuannum

Mmakowa: (Little pepper) Inspired by the physical appearance and uses of the tiny red & yellow hot pepper. Symbolizes effectiveness, high potency, greatness inspite of smallness

Hye wo

Owia: (sun) Inspired by the divine and cosmic powers associated with the sun. It symbolizes life giving, growth, cosmic energy, divine power progress and enlightenment

Nkonsonkonso

Kawo: (Centipede). Inspired by the physical characteristices of the centipede which has numerous legs. Symbolizes uniqueness


Prepared by Kwaku Ofori-Ansa, Associate Professor of African Art History, Department of Art, College of Fine Arts,
Howard University

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