Resist-Dyed Textile (Àdìre Eleko) (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
There is a tradition in Yoruba textiles of using designs to encode messages, embody wishes, project values, or to offer prayers. Designs often project values through proverbs. A wearer can actively wish the good things of life upon himself or herselfby using certain patterns and designs.
Words were frequently incorporated into the designs of àdìre cloths and other textiles after the European colonization. The phrase SURULERE (“patience is profitable”) appears as a repeated motif in the stenciled design of this àdìre cloth. Some dyers were unfamiliar with the alphabet of the colonial powers, perhaps explaining why the upside down “L” in the inscription on this cloth.
Words were frequently incorporated into the designs of àdìre cloths and other textiles after the European colonization. The phrase SURULERE (“patience is profitable”) appears as a repeated motif in the stenciled design of this àdìre cloth. Some dyers were unfamiliar with the alphabet of the colonial powers, perhaps explaining why the upside down “L” in the inscription on this cloth.
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. George W. Sadler, in memory of Dr. and Mrs. George W. Sadler and Henrietta Sadler Kinman
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
