THE TRAVELLED PATH OF GHANAIAN WOOD FURNITURE AESTHETICS: FROM THE NINETEENTH CENTURY TO THE TWENTY-FIRST CENTURY

Abstract

Ghanaian wood furniture design dates back to the 19th century, yet there is limited research documenting its aesthetic evolution from the 19th to the 21st centuries. Although some studies focus on traditional Ghanaian seats and others examine challenges in the furniture industry, none provide a comprehensive account of how cultural, colonial, technological, and global influences have shaped the aesthetics of Ghanaian wood furniture over time. This study addresses this gap by documenting the historical development of Ghanaian wood furniture aesthetics from the 19th to the 21st centuries. Using an interpretivist paradigm, the research adopted a qualitative, creative arts–based approach. Data were gathered from twenty purposively selected respondents across six regions of Ghana through interviews, observations, photography, questionnaires, and focus group discussions, supported by field collection and visual analysis of over one hundred furniture pieces. The data were analysed thematically with attention to ethical and cultural considerations. The findings reveal that Ghanaian wood furniture aesthetics originated in the nineteenth century with symbolic carvings rooted in indigenous belief systems, evolved through the twentieth century under colonial and post-colonial influences that altered forms and functions, and further transformed in the twenty-first century through the incorporation of modern technologies, sustainable materials, and global design trends while retaining traditional joinery and symbolic meanings. The study recommends the digital archiving of furniture designs, policy support for local artisans, interdisciplinary capacity-building workshops, and expanded exhibitions to promote sustainability, cultural preservation, and innovation within Ghana’s furniture design industry.