Man's Ceremonial Garment

Unknown

19th century · Sisal, human hair · Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

The small round tufts of human hair embroidered on the ground fabric of this tunic are symbolic of the leopard. In this region of Africa, the leopard is the most revered animal of the natural world, embodying the qualities of leadership and power. Worn for masquerade, the potent symbolism of the tunic transforms the wearer by imparting the noble traits of the leopard.

Artist

Unknown

Date

19th century

Medium

Sisal, human hair

Culture

Bamileke peoples

Department

Arts of Africa, Oceania, and the Americas

Credit line

Purchase, Janet A. Sloane Gift Fund, 1994