This necklace is made of cow stomach and wined using sisal twine. It is one of a kind; beads and other decorations are not used in this necklace, it is pure cow stomach. To make such object three to four weeks is required to complete the work. Originally the warriors make this object for their hair purposes. They use this object to prevent the red ochre from leaking out of their hair when sleeping. However, after the object starts to rip apart it is turned into a necklace. Initiated women are prohibited to touch this ornament before it is turned into a necklace while uninitiated girls are permitted to touch the object. Senior warrior Ole Lemoyian contributed this ornament.
Leather and beads
1/4 x 6in. (0.6 x 15.2cm)
General Acquisition Fund
2000.14.2
Not currently on view
Resources
Exhibition HistorySeattle, Washington, Seattle Art Museum, Art from Africa: Long Steps Never Broke a Back, Feb. 7 - May 19, 2002. [Exhibition traveled to Philadelphia Museum of Art, Wadsworth Atheneum, Cincinnati Art Museum, and Frist Center for Visual Arts, but object not included.]
Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.
