Hunter's tunic. Tunic made of dark brown cloth. Rectangular leather patches are attached all over, with long, thin strips of leather knotted to both sides, creating fringes. White cowrie shells outline the neck, and are sewn in lines on the tunic. Small horns, tufts of hair, and small mirrors inset in leather are attached all over the tunic.

• History Of Use

  The hunter's tunic and hat have been dyed deep brown by repeated medicines being poured over them. The number of amulets sewed on accumulate over time and indicate the power of its owner. The first amulets may be given by the hunter’s first teacher, while others will be made by the owner himself in response to the arcane knowledge he may travel far and wide to obtain. The ingredients sealed within the leather pouches, and the animal claws and horns hanging from the tunic, are a rich source of nyama which protect the wearer from dangers in the wilderness and enhance his skills at tracking and dispatching prey.

• Narrative

  Tchuemegne obtained the tunic from Mr. Kalilou Doumbia, in Bamako.

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• Type of Item tunic
• Culture Dogon
• Material hair, fibre, skin, glass, metal, cowrie shell, horn
• Measurements height 88.5 cm, width 123.0 cm (overall)

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• Previous Owner Richard Tchuemegne
• Received from Richard Tchuemegne, Michael O'Brian Family Foundation, Museum of Anthropology Exhibitions Budget

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• Made in Bamako

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• Ownership Date before February 5, 2020
• Acquisition Date on February 5, 2020

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• Item Classes textiles
• Condition fair
• Accession Number 3420/0046