Rare Museum Quality Antique Elaborate Beaded Yoruba Shango Priest / Diviner Ceremonial Vest / Tunic - Yoruba, Nigeria. A remarkable piece of art that was hand-made / hand-stitched, with elaborate dense colorful glass beads worn only by Priests, Chiefs, and Kings dedicated to Shango, the Yoruba God of thunder. The tunic was worn by Priest in important ceremonies/rituals, often while in a trance state, said to be possessed by a deity. A chief or King would also wear this type of regalia for important ceremonial occasions. Divination played an important role in the lives of the Yoruba which determined their actions or explaining their misfortunes. The vest was believed to be imbued with spiritual & medicinal energy which empowered its wearer with influence over both worldly and spiritual forces. Colors & various designs play a significant & symbolic role among the Yoruba people. Approx. Dimensions: 42" H x 28" W (folded) | Ex. Eads' African Art Collection.

42 x 28 in