Title: Corset
Material: Beads and Natural Fiber
People: Dinka
Country: Sudan
Description:
The Dinka live in the southern 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, were their traditional beaded
corsets. These striking garments are worn at all times,
being removed only upon marriage or age progression.
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.
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.
Dimensions: 33" high by 14" wide by 8" deep
*Includes Custom-made stand.
