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Symbolic shield mask with mirror' by Kweku Andrews (Andrews, n.d.)

 Item — Box: 6, slide: 14.21.05

Scope and Contents

From the Collection:

Slides of Africa from various sources; these slides document a variety of topics such as agriculture, landscapes, city scenes, villages, architecture, industry, transportation, commerce, and people, from throughout Africa during the 20th century.

Dates

  • Majority of material found within 1960 - 2000

Conditions Governing Access

There are no restrictions on use of the materials in the department for research; all patrons must comply with federal copyright regulations. To inquire about access to this collection, please contact the Herskovits Library at africana@northwestern.edu.

Extent

From the Collection: 99 Boxes (99 slide boxes.)

Language of Materials

From the Collection: English

General

1. The oval shape indicates that the shield is used by queens in Ghana as a fan during ceremonial occasions. 2. The red color symbolizes the presence of the ancestors in the family. 3. The black is a sign of hope. 4. The green represents Mother Earth, who is provider on the family or society. 5. The mirror shows the ability to detect the movements of the enemy. 6. The gold tacks stand for the wealth of the society or family.

Library Details

Part of the Melville J. Herskovits Library of African Studies Repository

Contact:
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