The photograph depicts Baule dignitary N'Goran Koffi with his linguist and elders. "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.
Local Numbers:
EENG-XIII-17, 4A.
General:
Title source: Index card based on photographer's notes.
Local Note:
Typed index card reads, "C 2 Ble. Baule. Ivory Coast, Kouassiblekro. Chief N'Goran Koffi (b. 1905), ruler of 29 villages, Boungue, Gouamessonou and Assenie peoples. 4/1/1972. EE. neg.no. XIII-17, 4A." The card was written in 1977-79 by Archives staff using source provided by photographer.
Collection Restrictions:
Use of original records requires an appointment. Contact Archives staff for more details.
Collection Rights:
Permission to reproduce images from the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives must be obtained in advance. The collection is subject to all copyright laws.
