Item Records

This page shows all the information we have about this item. Both the institution that physically holds this item, and RRN members have contributed the knowledge on this page. You’re looking at the item record provided by the holding institution. If you scroll further down the page, you’ll see the information from RRN members, and can share your own knowledge too.

The RRN processes the information it receives from each institution to make it more readable and easier to search. If you’re doing in-depth research on this item, be sure to take a look at the Data Source tab to see the information exactly as it was provided by the institution.

These records are easy to share because each has a unique web address. You can copy and paste the location from your browser’s address bar into an email, word document, or chat message to share this item with others.

  • Data
  • Data Source

This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

Hand woven tunic (part a) and pants (part b) made of thick unbleached and undyed cotton. Tunic is long, with three quarter sleeves, a high neck, and zipper closure at back. At hem and wrists, as well as in a deep ‘v’ on shoulders and chest are attached thin bands of embroidery, consisting of evenly spaced diamonds in a variety of colours interspersed with ‘v’ shapes in black and red. Pants are narrow through the hips and thighs and widen toward ankles, constructed with seams down the back of each leg and several short pleats at waistband. Closure is by side zipper. Pants are undecorated.

History Of Use

Modern traditional clothing; worn during events and holidays. Embroidered white cotton pants and tunic, worn by men. The style of embroidery indicates that the clothing is likely from the Oromo people, although white cotton clothing can be found throughout Ethiopia (Chane, 2019). The weaving techniques and embroidery used in Ethiopian textiles are reminiscent of early cultural exchange and trade between Ethiopia and its neighbouring countries. Records show that as early as the first century CE, cotton was being imported into Ethiopia via the Red Sea. For the first few centuries, cotton clothing was restricted to aristocracy, but over time it became prolific throughout Ethiopian society (Gillow, 2009).

Cultural Context

Machine-made fabric; sewn by both men and women.

Item History

With an account, you can ask other users a question about this item. Request an Account

With an account, you can submit information about this item and have it visible to all users and institutions on the RRN. Request an Account

Similar Items