Yoruba Beaded Textile with Green Elephants

57 x 13 inches.
 
Cloth, thread, glass beads.
 
Cultural Significance:
Sashes like this were historically worn by Ifa priestesses and diviners in public ceremonies, symbolizing their spiritual position. They were also associated with kings and could signify affluence, spiritual well-being, and social status. 
 
Artistic Details:
This sash is meticulously constructed by hand in Nigeria. The Yuroba craftsperson sewed thousands of tiny, glass "seed beads" to create a dense, colorful surface.  They used techniques passed down through generations to depict animal motifs including green and blue elephants, a green mask mask. Other motifs include geometric patterns in orange, black, yellow and blue. Rows of white cowrie shells accent the lizard's face and digits.
 
Condition: Good, some discoloration to the foundation cloth, consistant with vintage age and quality.