Robe

Item number K2.356 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

Public

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Data
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Description

Green robe with gold embroidery. The front and back panels are sewn together along shoulder line, leaving an angled opening for the neck. The panels are also sewn together along the lower sides. The front is embroidered with a motif of interlocking rings upon a diamond shape. The robe is machine sewn and machine embroidered.

History Of Use

The boubou (French) is a large, loose-fitting, ankle-length robe worn by men of different groups in West Africa. The garment is said to have originated in the Middle East and introduced to West Africa by Arab and Berber merchants from the Maghreb and Tuareg through the trans-Saharan trade. Records show that this type of robe has been worn since the 11th century in ancient kingdoms across West Africa. The robe is usually worn at special events such as naming ceremonies and weddings. The attire was once considered a symbol of wealth and high-status due to its expensive fabrics and intricate embroidery.