Woman's garment
20th century
Hides of the impala or reedbuck antelope are the basis for skirts in northern Botswana. On top of the hides, strips of leather and beaded mesh add geometry to women's bodies. Originally, beads in this region were created out of cut pieces of ostrich shell which were hand cut and drilled. After the arrival of missionaries, glass beads began to replace the ostrich but maintain their coloration. The only exceptions to the black and white palette are tiny pink accents which add a distinctive element for women to wear on special occasions.
Antelope hide and glass beads
29 in. (73.7 cm)
L.: 20 1/16 in.
Overall w.: 54 in.
Gift of Katherine White and the Boeing Company
81.17.1263