Type: Oil painting Original size: 32 x 39.5 in (81 x 100 cm)
THE ENTHRONEMENT
For the Akan people, a tribe that originated in Cameroon, the preparation for the ascension of the king to the throne was a long spiritual ceremony that was done in great secrecy. It is said the secrecy was to protect the rising king from evil spirits.
In this painting an elder clothes the king with a rich garment, two servants bearing the king’s crown and jewels wait for the elder call on them.
On the wall of the hut, a mask representing the greatness of a former king looks down approvingly of the new king. On the floor, sits the statue of a god of wealth: his potbelly indicates that he is wealthy and at ease, casting his blessing on the new chosen king.
