Yet Belt

20th century

Opulent layers covered all members of the Kuba royal family with geometric patterns. This type of belt begins with a woven raffia base, to which sometimes as many as 30 beaded ornaments are added. In each, cowries and beads are sewn into complexes that load the nobility with the privilege of wearing their rank. Shells and beads were acquired through vast trade networks that reached their pinnacle during the last quarter of the 19th century. It is not known exactly which dignitary wore this belt, but a king wears one on the day of his ascension to the throne.

Raffia and beads

L.: 192 cm

Gift of the Christensen Fund

2001.329

Not currently on view

Resources

Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, A Bead Quiz, July 1, 2008 - July 1, 2009

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