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Under apron (iinkciya)
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This is an exquisite example of a rare type of swallowtail-shaped apron worn by young female initiates until the mid-19th century. On the upper portion, the black beads were applied in such a way that they can be read as a human face or even as a full figure. In fact, the overall form of the apron can be viewed as representing the lower torso and legs of a woman with a neatly marked pubic region.
| Artist / Maker | Anonymous, Xhosa-style (South Nguni) maker |
|---|---|
| Date | 1800s–1900s |
| Culture / Origin | Africa, Southern Africa, South Africa, Xhosa-style (South Nguni) maker |
| Medium | Leather, glass beads, and sinew |
| Dimensions | Overall: 34 x 18 x 2.5 cm (13 3/8 x 7 1/16 x 1 in.) |
| Department | African Art |
| Type | Garment |
About the Artist
Provenance & Source
Image & data: Cleveland Museum of Art, CC0 / Public Domain.
Condition
A detailed condition report and high-resolution photography are available from our specialists in advance of the sale.
Shipping & Collection
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