Leggings Item Number: Ac213 c from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Leggings, worn with shirt (Ac213 b), made of 2-ply grass open twine. There is a black cotton tie knotted in 8 segments around the waist. From the waist to upper thigh is light brown then continues in alternating dark brown and light sections.

History Of Use

Witch costume used in ritual festivals celebrated in the form of dance plays. Only initiated males can participate. It is used to invoke ancestral spirits, gods, and visitors from the world of the dead. The dance plays are held at night to further disguise performers. The dances serve to illustrate roles of certain individuals in society. Although, today they have lost some religious impact, they are still important status and prestige performances.

Cultural Context

ceremonial; ritual

Item History

What

Name
Leggings
Identification Number
Ac213 c
Type of Item
legging
Material
grass, palm leaf, cotton fibre and dye
Manufacturing Technique
twined, knotted, cut, tied and braided
Overall
height 93.1 cm, width 38.7 cm

Who

Culture
Pende
Previous Owner
Raija Warkentin
Received from
Raija Warkentin (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
Kasai, Democratic Republic of the Congo

When

Creation Date
before 1971
Collection Date
during 1971
Ownership Date
before June 13, 1977
Acquisition Date
on June 13, 1977

Other

Item Classes
textiles
Condition
good
Accession Number
0394/0001 c