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Ghana's Artful Departures: Coffins as Masterpieces
2 Jul
Summary
- Ghanaian community transforms coffins into vibrant works of art.
- Coffins are uniquely designed to represent the deceased's life.
- This tradition dates back to the 1950s, started by Seth Kane Kwei.
In Ghana, a distinctive community has reimagined the concept of funeral adornments, crafting elaborate coffins that serve as vibrant tributes to the departed. These are not ordinary burial containers but bespoke works of art, meticulously designed to reflect the individuality, experiences, and life stories of the deceased.
Visitors to woodworking studios might encounter giant fish, airplanes, cocoa pods, or mobile phones—all serving as unique, handcrafted coffins. This tradition, rooted in the customs of the Ga people primarily in the Greater Accra Region, transforms grief into a celebration of legacy.
The origins of these fantasy coffins trace back to the 1950s with craftsman Seth Kane Kwei. A family's decision to bury a woman in a cocoa-pod-shaped coffin, after she missed a planned palanquin ride, birthed this globally recognized art form.
Artisans continue this legacy in communities like Teshie and Nungua, using local hardwoods to create these personalized resting places. The process involves sketching designs and constructing full-scale wooden sculptures, with each unique commission taking weeks to complete.
Travellers seeking unusual cultural experiences can respectfully visit artisan workshops in Teshie and Accra. Guided tours often include stops at family-run studios, offering a unique glimpse into how Ghana celebrates life, even in death.
