KEIn Ghana, especially within Ga communities near Accra, 'fantasy' or 'figurative' coffins are created to honor the deceased based on their lives and professions. These unique coffins reflect the individual’s identity, such as a musician being placed in a giant guitar-shaped coffin or a teacher in a pen-shaped coffin. The practice dates back to the mid-20th century and draws inspiration from traditional palanquins used by local leaders. Craftsmen like Lawrence Anang and Daniel Oblie Mensah design these intricate coffins, which serve both as artistic expressions and cultural rituals. While many of these coffins are buried soon after funerals, some are preserved in museums, such as a guitar-shaped coffin now on display at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art.
Bias read (Center): The article discusses a cultural tradition related to funerary practices in Ghana, focusing on the creation of symbolic coffins. There is no mention of political issues, policies, or figures, and the content remains neutral in tone, providing descriptive information about the customs and artisans.
