The akrafena is the emblematic sword of the Ashanti within the wider Akan world of Ghana. It served in warfare, court ritual, diplomacy, and oath-taking. State examples are heavily coded with Adinkra symbolism, gold sheathing, and ornate sheaths. The most famous is Mpomponsuo, meaning “Responsibility,” used by the Asantehene in installation rites.
Specifications
| Feature | Typical Details |
|---|---|
| Overall length | 60 to 75 cm (museum examples between 62 and 70 cm) |
| Blade | Iron or steel, often asymmetrical with widened tip, cut-outs, grooves, and incised motifs; ceremonial versions can be double or triple-bladed |
| Hilt | Carved wood core with double spherical grip, frequently wrapped in gold leaf, shagreen, leather, or cloth |
| Guard | Minimal, grip-focused design |
| Sheath | Leather or hide, sometimes leopard or eel skin, fitted with abɔsodeɛ (ornamental emblems) |
| Weight | Light to medium, suited for one-handed use |
| Use | Practical weapon historically, now primarily ceremonial and symbolic |
History and Evolution
- Origins: Emerged within Akan states in the seventeenth century, first as functional weapons for close combat.
- Court symbolism: By the height of Asante power, swords became regalia. Right-side swords, the akrafena, symbolised the king’s soul, while left-side bosomfena represented spirit or personality.
- Named swords: The most important, Mpomponsuo, is tied to oaths of loyalty and royal ceremonies.
- Colonial impact: Many swords left Kumasi during Anglo-Asante conflicts. Some are now being returned on loan for display in Ghana.
- Continuity: The akrafena remains part of festivals, diplomacy, and national symbolism, with a martial art tradition sometimes associated with its use.
Symbolism and Design
- Adinkra motifs: Engravings and piercings on blades and hilts convey proverbs about leadership, prudence, and responsibility.
- Sheath emblems (abɔsodeɛ): Ornaments such as animals and birds convey allegories tied to Ashanti statecraft.
- Gold ornament: Wrapping and cast decoration emphasise authority and wealth.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
- A clear symbolic system for authority and duty.
- Functional close-quarters blade in early use.
- Durable design with fewer fragile points than many other swords.
Disadvantages
- Ceremonial pieces prioritised symbolism over battle utility.
- Declined as a battlefield weapon with the spread of firearms.
Comparison with Similar Weapons
| Weapon | Region | Features | Difference from Akrafena |
|---|---|---|---|
| Idà (Yoruba) | Nigeria | Broad, leaf-shaped blade | Less hierarchical symbolism, different hilt and blade shape |
| Takoba / Kaskara | Sahel & Sudan | Long, straight, double-edged swords | Longer thrust-capable blades with guards, fewer emblematic features |
| European Court Sword | Europe | Narrow ceremonial smallsword | Status symbol only, lacking proverb-rich iconography |
Where to See Akrafena
- Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York: Ornate ceremonial swords with gold-wrapped hilts.
- British Museum, London: Multiple akrafena with decorated sheaths and recorded ceremonial functions.
- Manhyia Palace Museum, Kumasi: State swords on display, including those returned from European collections.
Collectors’ Guide
Authenticity and Ethics
- Provenance is essential, especially due to concerns about looted regalia.
- Preference is given to documented, legally exported examples.
Condition Checklist
- Double-sphere grip intact with original wrapping.
- Blade decoration sharp and unpolished.
- Sheath complete with emblems attached.
Market Overview
- Later ceremonial examples: £300 to £500.
- Mid-range ceremonial swords with carved blades: £1,500 to £5,000.
- Early or gold-adorned examples: £3,000 to £4,000 and higher depending on provenance.
Buying Tips
- Compare with museum examples for authenticity.
- Avoid tourist trade replicas with crude decoration or false patination.
- Prioritise pieces with exhibition or published history.
Care and Conservation
- Do not over-polish.
- Store in stable humidity to protect blade, leather, and gold leaf.
The Seven Swords Takeaway
The akrafena continues to symbolise the Ashanti concept of soul, duty, and authority. It remains an active part of royal and state ceremonies while also functioning as a cultural emblem in modern Ghana.
