Zoe Shirt
← Back to search- Title Zoe Shirt
- Category Mixed media
- Medium Mixed Media
- Dimensions 27"h x 26"w
- Year Completed Undated
- Notes In Liberia and other nearby West African countries social and moral control is exerted by the Poro society for men and the Sande society for women. The highest officials in each organization are “Zoes” who wear attire that demonstrates and embodies their power. The shirt is accompanied by a hat, and both are adorned with symbols of power and authority. The mirrors, seen on both the hat and shirt are used to identify witches and neutralize their malevolent power. The tassels and shells contain a variety of medicines used to defend the wearer. When held up and accompanied by formulaic words, the small piece of animal skin has the power to make rain stop.
- Artist Unknown Liberia and Ivory Coast
- Credit John and Janet Yoder Collection
- Location Library Art Storage L1
- Accession Number 2022.0141
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Status
Available
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