Soulwasher's Badge

Cast and hammered gold discs called akrafokonmu, meaning "soul discs" or "soul washers' badges," are worn by individuals who represent the chief's soul. These "soul washers" perform a number of duties, including carrying ceremonial swords and performing purification rites that may involve bathing the chief and important items of state regalia, especially stools. The round shape of the soul washer's badge has been associated with a pool of water and the designs compared to what happens when a pebble is thrown into the water.

In 1819, Thomas Bowdich, an Englishman who led an information-gathering mission to the kingdom of Asante, related this account:

"The Ocras (soul washers) are distinguishable by a large circle of gold suspended from the neck; many of them are favorite slaves, many, commoners, who have distinguished themselves, and who are glad to stake their lives on the King's, to be kept free from palavers and supported by his bounty, which they are entirely; some few are relatives and men of rank. All of the two former classes, excepting only the two or three individuals known to have been entrusted with the King's state secrets, are sacrificed at his tomb."

Today, of course, there are no funeral sacrifices, and these breast plates are also worn by chiefs, women of the royal line, and deities. They can be attached to stools, swords, crowns, and other regalia as protection against evil.