War Shirt (Batakari)
Artist/Maker
Akan people
Ghana
Date20th century
CultureAkan
Mediumcotton, indigo dye, leather, horn, fur and metal
DimensionsOverall: 60 x 36 in. (152.4 x 91.4 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineMuseum purchase
Terms
Object number94.0008.02
On View
On viewCollections
DescriptionThe use of shirts of this type by war leaders and hunters probably originated in the Muslim areas of northern Ghana, where this one was collected. They are adorned with small, leather-covered charms sewn around tightly folded papers containing written Islamic phrases or geometric diagrams; the charms are believed to have the power to protect the wearer from harm.- Art of Africa
Chokwe people
20th century
