1950s Yoruba Ceremonial Beaded Sango Tunic with Floor Stand - 50" H X 20" W (#3)

Striking ceremonial beaded tunic created by the Yoruba people of Nigeria. It features brightly-colored depictions of animals along with abstract patterns. These beaded Shango vests or tunics were worn by a High Priest during divination ceremonies and festivals and are considered empowered with spiritual and medicinal energy; thus empowering the wearer with 'Ase' - authority and command. 

This is an authenticated garment that rests on a solid metal museum-quality floor stand which has been newly powder coated a high gloss black. Due to the ornamentation on both the front and back sides, this piece is surprisingly heavy. The level of craftsmanship makes for a stunning freestanding sculptural piece that can be enjoyed from both sides since they are equally adorned with thousands of glass seed beads and share the same level of detail.

This would be suitable for a public or private collection and lend visual interest to a range of interior settings from Globally-Inspired, Boho, Industrial/Loft... to Southwestern or Mid-Century.       

Place of Origin: Nigeria

Date of Manufacture: 1950s 

Condition: Excellent

Wear: Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions: 

Tunic: 45.5 in. H X 29.0 in. W X 1.0 in. D 

Total: 50.0 in. H X 20.0 in. W X 6.0 in. D 

Reference: 

African Arts, 1998 (pgs. 18-27)

HALI, African Textiles in Dallas

New Orleans Museum of Art

University of Iowa Stanley Museum of Art

Princeton University Art Museum

Art Institute of Chicago

Shipping Note: Due to the size and weight of this piece, it will need custom handling and packaging. Contact us for a quote. 

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