Early 20th Century Rare Asafo Flag Bearer Dancers Skirt Ghana

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Traditional Asafo flag bearer dancer's skirt from Ghana, associated with the ceremonial regiments known as Asafo companies. The individual entrusted … Read more Traditional Asafo flag bearer dancer's skirt from Ghana, associated with the ceremonial regiments known as Asafo companies. The individual entrusted with carrying and performing with the Asafo flag, known as the Frankaakitsanyi, holds an esteemed position that requires extensive training, apprenticeship, and exceptional agility.

While some examples are fashioned from plain or dyed grasses, this skirt is constructed from rich red velvet and embellished with colorful satin bands, reflecting the more elaborate costumes used in ceremonial performances. Such garments were worn during festivals, processions, and other important community events, where the flag bearer displayed both physical skill and the prestige of the Asafo company.

This striking textile combines vibrant color with cultural significance, representing a distinctive tradition of the Fante peoples of coastal Ghana and the enduring heritage of Asafo ceremonial performance.


We do not recommend laundering textiles and do not accept returns of textiles that have been laundered in any manner. Even dry cleaning is too much for some of these antique textiles. For some of them, a very gentle HAND washing (NEVER MACHINE, on any setting) in cool water with a very gentle detergent works, but even then, dyes may not be colorfast, and fabric may be less strong than it appears.


Height (in): 35.0
Width (in): 21.0
Waist is 27/28 size.


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