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Object Timeline
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1901 |
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1973 |
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2007 |
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2013 |
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2025 |
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Strip (Nigeria), early to mid-20th century
This is a Strip. It is dated early to mid-20th century and we acquired it in 1973. Its medium is hand-spun and machine-spun cotton and its technique is hand-loomed plain weave. It is a part of the Textiles department.
Etu, along with alaari and sanyan, form a triumvirate of high-status textiles for the Yoruba of Nigeria. The name etu refers to the speckled feathers of the guinea fowl, and the design pairs a deep, blackish-blue ground with a fine, small-scale check of lighter blue. The effect is accentuated by combining locally grown, handspun cotton in the ground with finer, factory-spun yarns for the check. It is also customary to use a combination of local indigo dye and imported grains.
While any adult can wear this cloth, etu is deeply connected to Yoruban traditions and commands respect. It is frequently worn by older persons and community leaders.
This object was
donated by
Dr. Mattiebelle Gittinger.
It is credited Gift of Dr. Mattiebelle Gittinger.
Its dimensions are
Warp x Weft: 43.2 x 10.8 cm (17 x 4 1/4 in.)
Cite this object as
Strip (Nigeria), early to mid-20th century; hand-spun and machine-spun cotton; Warp x Weft: 43.2 x 10.8 cm (17 x 4 1/4 in.); Gift of Dr. Mattiebelle Gittinger; 1973-65-1
