Vibrant, artisanal coffins in Ghana symbolize a lively tribute to life and personal heritage
In the bustling city of Accra, Ghana, a unique tradition is being carried forward by skilled craftsmen. Known as Abebuo, these are not ordinary coffins, but works of art that serve as a final tribute to the lives of the deceased.
Nicolas Ablorh Annan, a coffin maker from Accra, shared that the practice originated among the Ga people but has now evolved into a family business with no ties to the rituals. He is currently working on six Abebuo, destined to be shipped abroad the following week.
Each Abebuo takes about two weeks to complete, and the time and effort put into them are evident in their intricate designs. For instance, a fishmonger might be remembered in the form of a fish, down to its exact type. A farmer could be buried in a coffin shaped like tools or crops he used.
The animal kingdom plays a significant role in these coffins. Lion-shaped coffins are reserved only for chiefs, as the lion is a symbol of power. In Labadi, a suburb of Accra, royal families are tied to their emblem, the rooster, a design reserved only for their lineage.
These coffins are more than just burial containers. For those left behind, each Abebuo is more than a final resting place; it is a story carved in wood, a proverb to be read. As Eric Kpakpo Adotey, a carpenter specializing in fantasy coffins, stated, the coffins shift the sorrow to laughter and tears, softened by creativity.
The international interest in Abebuo is growing, with many foreign clients ordering them primarily for exhibitions as art pieces. Some Abebuo are even destined for museums abroad.
At funerals, the presence of an Abebuo transforms the atmosphere. Mourners are captivated by the craftsmanship, colours, shapes, and boundless imagination that go into each piece. Each Abebuo is a metaphor, a wooden riddle, and a final message left behind.
The Abebuo, a practice among the Ga people of Accra, Ghana, stands as a testament to the vibrant culture and creativity of Ghanaian artisans. Despite their sombre purpose, these coffins serve as a celebration of life, a fitting tribute to the unique individuals they represent.
Read also:
- Naloxone dispensers installed at five train stations in Cook County Health and CTA initiative
- Transitioning to Environmental Profitability
- Nightfall signals the arrival of Mathieu Grondin in Ottawa, who seeks to invigorate the city's vibe post-sunset
- Preparedness-focused Watch Ultra 3 from Apple caters to high-end urban survivalists
