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Asafo Frankaa Gallery

Asafo flags, locally called "frankaa", are paraded on festive occasions by men's "military" companies among the Fante people of coastal Ghana. The imagery asserts the wealth and power of the company and challenges its rivals, often through an associated proverb. Due to the demand for these striking flags from European and American collectors in the 1990s old flags in acceptable condition are now becoming extremely scarce, even compared to two years back. The flags were made from thin flimsy imported cloth and the effect of being hung outside for days at a time in all weathers and repeated use in parades tends to mean that older pieces are usually quite battered with numerous marks, holes and patches. One can think of this damage as "battle scars" testifying to their authenticity. In fact flags with no damage at all are often copies made for sale to tourists. Asafo flags are currently much in fashion and similar pieces  to these have now been sold at auction here in London at significantly higher prices. 

All these flags are unique and genuine Fante pieces collected in Ghana. Full details of size and condition of each cloth, together with price and ordering information, can be found with a larger picture by clicking on the thumbnail images. Please be patient as the images may take a minute to download. As with all our cloths we guarantee a full refund if you are not satisfied with any order (but please take careful note of our comments on condition of these pieces before ordering.)

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Click picture below to access our newly revised Asafo information resources 

(c) Duncan Clarke, Version 7/25/2008