I first came across the Duafe adinkra symbol while building this collection.
It wasn't something I grew up with, but rather something I learned through deep research: research that led me to discover physical artefacts stored in museums across the world.
To the untrained eye, the Duafe is simply an intricately designed wooden comb, used both practically and for the sake of beautifying oneself. However, in Akan culture, the Duafe does not only mark a rite of passage, it also holds deep sentimental value for both giver and receiver.
The comb was often gifted by loved ones and occasionally commissioned by women of high stature for themselves. Once given, the Duafe was kept as a memento by the receiver or her family. The more intricate the design, the more expensive the comb. It is said by observers of the Akan that the comb was used to greet one another: by simply taking it out of one's hair and placing it back again. A reminder that we have always adorned our hair with pride.
From the Duafe, a symbol of love, commiseration, and care, comes the Duafe adinkra symbol: a representation of self-love, self-worth, beauty, and patience. This is what femininity meant, and still means, to the Akan people.
In the process of learning, I was reminded that most of Ghanaian history is oral (anansesem), and that is why this archive exists. Golden Hour Archive is a space for that to return. A place for us to tell our story through our own perspective.
It is not lost on me that much of the information I found in my research did not come from other Ghanaians. That absence is felt. It is of the utmost importance that we are the ones to tell our history; therefore, we must learn it (sankofa).
Like those before us, we must keep, hold, and cherish our culture and objects: not as distant history, but as living memory. Something we remain connected to. Something we pass on to our loved ones.
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