Beaded Leather Apron, Turkana, "Toga" African Start Price USD 225.00 Current Price USD 225.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Friday, November 21, 2008 End Time Sunday, December 21, 2008 Location Denver, CO See more about 'Beaded Leather Apron, Turkana, "Toga" African' Description Turkana Beaded Leather Apron Toga, Kenya, Africa Type of Object: Leatherwork Ethnic Group: Turkana Country of Origin: Kenya Materials: leather, beads,buttons Approximate Age: Mid 20th century Dimensions: 17.5 inches W. x 22 inches L. Overall Condition: Good Damage, Repair: wear, dust, minor holes, a slight odor due to the uncured hide Additional Information: This magnificently beaded apron is made of goatskin or sheepskin decorated with beads on the surface. The skirt is embellished with ochre. Such Aprons are found among several people of Eastern and Southern Africa such as the Turkana, Maasai, Karamanjong, and San. This one is tentatively attributed to the Turkana people, inhabitants of the Turkana district of Rift Valley, in Kenya. Their exact number is not known. Estimates run from the old figure of 250, 000 down to 340,000. They are Kenya’s third-largest ethnic group of pastorals. Like their neighbors the Maasai, cattle are their primary wealth. They are very famous for their body ornaments, jewelry, leatherwork and beadwork. The vital role of the materials such as the leather and beads is obvious in Turkana culture and ornaments. The leather is a material found locally. Beads and buttons are imported. This beaded leather apron was worn in front of the body by unmarried girls.Such aprons were greatly appreciable for their protective power and are said to ensure fertility and to possess medicinal proprieties. In other words, these materials can heal. When applied on this women Apron, the beads purpose was not only to embellish the apron, but also to protect the wearer and guarantee their motherhood status. Such skirts were used as garments and part of women and young girls dress. Up to date they aprons are still worn by young women during important ceremonies. Recommended Reading:, Marie-Louise Labelle, BEADS OF LIFE. Eastern and Southern African Beadwork from Canadian Collections, 2005, Cultural Studies paper 78, Canadian Museum of CivilizationI have examined this piece and agree with the descriptionNiangi Batulukisi, PhD. **008555** All content, including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc., 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Please visit our About Us page. Place a Bid!