Shoulder to hem: 80.6 (31 3/4 in.); Width of hem: 77.5 cm (30 1/2 in.); Armhole to Armhole: 41 cm (16 1/8 in.)
Type:
Textile and Fiber Arts
Geography:
Freetown, Sierra Leone
Date:
1971
Label Text:
The kaba sloht in varying forms dates back to the late 19th century and has occupied a changing place in Krio culture--sometimes casual, sometimes dressy and sometimes associated with the poor, sometimes having higher status. After independence and in the diaspora, it seems to be a defining identifier for Krio women. Composed of shaped sections of commercial cloth, fitted to the body with decorative detailing featuring a yoke, tucks and bias binding; the sleeve length and hemline vary over time. This particular dress is made from a cloth commemorating the anniversary of the declaration of the republic of Sierra Leone. After years of civil and military unrest and fighting In April 1971, a new republican constitution was adopted under which Siaka Stevens became president again. Despite this document election disputes corruption charges and outright civil war continued until 2002.
Description:
Dress composed of a fabric commemorating the anniversary of the Republic. It is an example of the "lace" applique on the top with hand-made bias tape.
Provenance:
Lucille Chaveas, collected in Freetown, Sierra Leone, 2003 to 2013
Content Statement:
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