Pair of Yoruba Beaded Dance Panels, early 20th c.
TAD Tribal Art
This pair of finely beaded panels, from the early 20th c. known as Yata, were worn on ritual occasions. These have beaded fringes including metal bells, some of which are missing. According to Robert Ferris Thompson , Yatas with fringes are dance panels worn on the festive occasions for the deity Oluwa. Reference: Fagg, William, Yoruba Beadwork, Art of Nigeria, 1980. Beading is a man's work in Yoruba culture. Women are forbidden to view or partake in the beading process. The Yata are always worn in pairs, though it is rare to find an original set.
Fine old indigo textile backing on panels,with some wear. Total length with cotton straps and fringes 39"
Panel dimensions 12" w x 10.75" h
SOLD
Artwork details
Origin
Yoruba people, Nigeria
Dimension
H 10.75IN x W 12IN
H 27.305CM x W 30.48CM
Provenance
ex Ralph T. Coe collection, Santa Fe, NM
purchased in Hall, England, 1959, one of his first purchases of African art
Exhibited and published in the "Selections from the Ralph T. Coe Collection of African Art", Allen Memorial Museum, Oberlin College, Oberlin, Ohio. Oct 3-Dec 15th , 2002
Condition
Condition is remarkable, considering their age. Missing a few beads on panel and fringes, and wear on cotton edges of the panel