Ghana's Elaborate Coffin Tradition Honors the Dead

In Ghana's capital city of Accra, a unique tradition has been practiced for generations. Local craftsmen create coffins that reflect the lives and professions of the deceased.

The tradition is particularly prominent among the Ga communities around Accra, where figurative or fantasy coffins have become a way to celebrate the life and identity of the dead. For example, fishermen may be buried in giant fish-shaped coffins, while farmers can be laid to rest in cocoa pods or chickens.

The craftsmen use various materials, including wood and paint, to create these elaborate coffins. Some designs are inspired by modern items, such as mobile phones and bottles of Coca-Cola. The coffins are often brightly painted and feature detailed designs that reflect the person's profession or passion.

Coffin maker Daniel Obele Mensah has spent three decades crafting these unique coffins. He has worked on a wide range of designs, including an airplane-shaped coffin for a pilot and a giant football boot for a late footballer. The modern tradition developed among Ga craftsmen in the mid-20th century and has been influenced by decorated ceremonial palanquins used by local leaders.

The coffins have also become a part of contemporary art, with some pieces being displayed in museums and private collections. For example, a guitar-shaped coffin made by Ghanaian artist Paa Joe was exhibited on loan at the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. The craftsmen who create these coffins are skilled artists who use their talents to pay tribute to the deceased and their families.