Baule dignitary N'Goran Koffi's gold jewelry, Kouassiblekro, Ivory Coast

The photograph depicts ornate bracelet, gold nuggets and gold finger-rings worn on the left wrist of Baule dignitary N'Goran Koffi. "From ancient times gold nuggets have been pierced and worn as ornaments. They were regarded as possessing a spirit that could confer magical protection on the wearer. Such nuggets can still be seen on the bracelets and necklaces of Akan chiefs." [Timothy F. Garrard, 1989: Gold of Africa, Prestel]. "During the colonial period the French sought to consolidate their authority over the peoples of the south-eastern region by creating district and cantonal chiefs. Though untraditional, these offices have survived, and their occupants have increasingly sought to gain status by adopting Akan-style regalia (as have the few traditional paramount chiefs in the region)." [Timothy F. Garrard, 1989: Gold of Africa, Prestel]. This photograph was taken when Eliot Elisofon was on assignment for National Geographic and traveled to Africa from January 19, 1972 to mid April 1972.