While gold ornamentation is often symbolic, sometimes it is purely decorative as is the cast with these sandals. Every Akan chief owned a pair of sandals and a helmet adorned with gold in order to distinguish himself from an ordinary tribesmen. Surely such beautiful regalia would instantly reveal that the owner is a man of power and prestige. While the gold ornaments covering the strap is the epitome of luxury, the leather sole has also been elegantly embellished with woven patterns echoing the contours of the sandal. Furthermore, the leather has also been died different colors including burgundy, yellow, and green, each accentuating the tightly woven patterns. The strap has been divided into squares, each square further divided into four triangular segments, each of which is covered in a gold panel. Many of the gold sheets have been stamped with various abstract and foliate motifs, adding a nice texture and further enhancing the sophistication of the work. The center of these squares is marked by a small golden bead. A gold panel in the form of a flower elegantly announces the middle of the strap. Quite simply, objects of overwhelming luxury such as this sandal were worn in order to proudly display the wealth and power of the chief, a wealth and power that remains as impressive to our eyes as it must have to his royal entourage. - (PF.6127)