DepartmentTextiles-Africa

Agbada (Yoruba)

NameTunic

Artist Artist Not Recorded

DateEarly-mid 20th century

Place madeTogo, Africa

Place madeNigeria, Africa

Place madeBenin, Africa

MediumCotton, silk

Dimensions43 11/16 × 95 1/4 in. (111 × 242 cm)

Credit LineMuseum of International Folk Art, IFAF Collection, FA.2014.56.1

Object numberFA.2014.56.1

DescriptionThis indigo dyed tunic has a fine checks in tan with geometric designs on front panel and at nape. Hand embroidered in tan-colored thread button hole stitch. In larger circles and rhomboid pattern (PR upper) the stitches form smaller circles whose centers have been cut away. At PR waist area an opening forms a pocket. The sides consist of 20 panels each sewn together, the hem area closed. Front panel is of at least 14 panels, some gusseted. Some back panels extend from front. There are 2 large gussets. Front neck opening crocheted (tunic resembles a poncho). Upper portion lined inside with striped purple, green magenta silk at bottom hem; white cotton at neckline.