El Anatsui (Ghanaian, born 1944)Chief with history behind him
signed and dated 'El Anatsui 87' (lower right); titled and numbered 5/10
aquatint and drypoint
44 x 31.5cm (17 5/16 x 12 3/8in).注脚This drypoint was etched by the artist in 1987. It depicts a Ghanaian chieftain in ceremonial robes. The chief is set against a backdrop of Adinkra ideograms, a system of linguistic symbols used in Ghana. Traditionally these symbols would be painted or incised on wooden furniture, jewellery, brass weights, and fabrics. Each symbol represents a concept, and are inspired by the natural world, proverbs and folklore.

One of the most frequently recurring symbols in this etching is sankofa (a Twi word that translates as "Go back and get it"). Sankofa takes the form of a bird looking over its shoulder, and represents the need to reflect on the past to build a successful future.

El Anatsui employs the symbol here to express that all leaders should be mindful of the lessons of history if they are to govern effectively and responsibly.