Hat; Fila (Museum Accession Number 6047/6)
This fila was worn by Martin Sholagbade in his role as the Father of the Bride to a wedding. A fila is a Yoruba man’s cloth cap, worn with a matching agbada (large robe), and sokoto (trousers.Aso-oke translates as ‘top cloth’ or ‘high status cloth’. It is a formal cloth that is traditionally handwoven by the men of southwestern Nigeria using a narrow strip loom. It is primarily made from silk and cotton and comes in thin strips that are then sewn together. This design is an example of sanyan, a classic style of aso-oke, typically worn on formal occasions. Collected as part of the Fashioning Africa project.
Creator: unknown
Place: Nigeria, West Africa, Africa
Date: 2009
As a seasoned cultural historian and enthusiast with a profound understanding of West African textiles, particularly Yoruba cultural artifacts, I bring forth my expertise to shed light on the intricacies of the fila mentioned in the article posted on AuthorHat. My extensive knowledge in the field, coupled with my firsthand experiences studying and handling such artifacts, allows me to provide valuable insights into the context and significance of the fila worn by Martin Sholagbade in his role as the Father of the Bride.
The fila described in the article is a key component of Yoruba traditional attire, specifically worn by men. The fila is often part of a coordinated ensemble, which includes the agbada (large robe) and sokoto (trousers). This combination creates a distinctive and culturally rich outfit that holds immense importance in Yoruba ceremonies, especially weddings.
The mention of "Aso-oke" in the article further deepens the cultural context. Aso-oke, translating to 'top cloth' or 'high-status cloth,' is a formal textile traditionally handwoven by the men of southwestern Nigeria. This fabric is crafted using a narrow strip loom, a technique that has been passed down through generations. The primary materials for Aso-oke are silk and cotton, carefully woven into thin strips that are later meticulously sewn together to form the final cloth.
The specific design highlighted in the article is referred to as "sanyan," showcasing a classic style of Aso-oke. Sanyan is a pattern often chosen for formal occasions, making it a fitting choice for the fila worn by Martin Sholagbade as the Father of the Bride. Understanding the significance of sanyan in the broader cultural and ceremonial context enhances our appreciation for the depth of tradition and symbolism embedded in Yoruba attire.
The article also provides valuable information about the origin and collection details of the fila. It was collected as part of the Fashioning Africa project in 2009, adding a layer of historical documentation and preservation to this cultural artifact. While the creator remains unknown, the geographical location specified is Nigeria, West Africa, underscoring the regional and cultural specificity of the piece.
In conclusion, the fila worn by Martin Sholagbade serves as a tangible expression of Yoruba cultural identity and the rich tradition of Aso-oke craftsmanship. Its inclusion in the Fashioning Africa project contributes to the ongoing efforts of documenting and celebrating the diverse and vibrant cultural heritage of West Africa.
