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Ghana (Kumasi)
Soulwasher's Badge (Akrafokonmu) by Asante Goldsmiths
2687
Crafted during the height of the Asante Empire, specifically dating to before 1874 AD (widely attributed to the 18th or 19th century).
Worn as a sacred pectoral badge by the akrafo ("soul washers"—the royal attendants responsible for the spiritual purification and safeguarding of the kra, or vital life force, of the Asantehene/King and the entire kingdom).
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