Beaded Corset - Dinka People - Sudan - SOLD

Price: $0.00


 


The three to four million Dinka live in the soutern Sudan. Their language and culture is based on cattle herding. Courtship among the Dinka occurs primarily at dry season cattle camps, which are run by the young men and women. The most prized possessions among the Dinka, except for their cattle, are their traditional beaded corsets. These striking garments are thought to have evolved from belts in the case of men and necklaces in the case of women. The men's corsets are called Malual and are usually characterized by a high projection on the back, which indicates the wealth of his family. The color of the corset indicates the wearer's age group: 15-25 year olds wear red and black, 25-30 year olds wear pink and purple, while those over 30 wear yellow. The women's corsets are called Alual and are sometimes of a looser, bodice style. They are often decorated with cowrie shells, which are believed to promote fertility. The pattern of the beads indicates the wealth of the girl's family, as well as the bride price expected to be paid, in cattle, by the successful suitor. NOTE: this piece includes the black torso display shown in the photos. The torso display, including the metal stand to which it is attached is 65" tall, 16" wide and 12" deep. The corset itself measures 33" tall by 16" wide by 9" deep.