Exhibition Guide

Surrounded by men and animals, the strong figure in the center of this flag seems ready to burst from his chains. Since the 17th century, newly elected officers of asafo companies, or militias, have commissioned flags like this one to decorate their meeting halls, dance competitions, and mock battles. Even as the threat of invasion from other kingdoms receded in the mid-19th century, Fante men continued to join asafo companies, which transformed into social and philanthropic organizations like the Freemasons.

The flag of the United Kingdom, in the upper left corner, dates this flag to the colonial era. Colonial administrators had to approve asafo flag designs, and the inclusion of the Union Jack represents the profound impact that British colonialism had on every facet of life in this African nation. When Ghana gained its independence in 1957, some asafo companies had new pieces made featuring the Ghanaian national flag.