Discovering the Beauty of Edo Traditional Attire
Have you ever been curious about the traditional attire of the Edo people but didn't know what it's called? Are you interested in learning about the culture and history behind this beautiful clothing? Look no further, as we delve into the world of Edo traditional attire and unveil its secrets.
For many people, traditional attire has a special place in their hearts as it reflects their cultural identity and heritage. However, the complex names and styles of different traditional attires can be confusing and overwhelming. This is especially true for those who are not familiar with the culture and history behind these clothing.
The traditional attire of the Edo people is called “Igie-Ohen”, which means “the King’s garment”. This attire is commonly worn by the Benin people of Edo State in Nigeria, especially during special occasions such as weddings, coronations, and festivals. It is a symbol of pride and prestige among the Edo people and represents their rich cultural heritage.
To gain a better understanding of Igie-Ohen and its significance, let's take a closer look at its features, history, and cultural relevance.
Features of Igie-Ohen
Igie-Ohen is a long gown made of brightly colored fabrics such as cotton, silk, or lace. It is often adorned with intricate embroidery or beadwork, which adds to its beauty and elegance. The attire is usually worn with a matching headpiece called a “Gele”, which is also made of the same fabric as the gown.
One of the unique features of Igie-Ohen is the elaborate train that runs behind the gown. This train is often longer than the gown itself and is carried by a “train bearer” who follows the wearer throughout the event. The train symbolizes the wearer's royal status and is a sign of respect and admiration.
History and Cultural Relevance of Igie-Ohen
The history of Igie-Ohen can be traced back to the Benin Empire, which was one of the most powerful and prosperous empires in West Africa. The attire was originally worn by the Oba (King) of Benin during important events and ceremonies. However, over time, it became a symbol of prestige and was worn by other members of the society who could afford it.
Today, Igie-Ohen is still considered a symbol of pride and cultural heritage among the Edo people. It represents the rich history and traditions of the Benin Kingdom and is a testament to the ingenuity and creativity of the Edo people.
The Making of Igie-Ohen
The process of making Igie-Ohen is a complex and time-consuming one that requires a high level of skill and expertise. It begins with the selection of the fabric, which is then cut and sewn into the desired shape and size. The embroidery or beadwork is then added to the gown, which can take several weeks or even months to complete.
Due to the intricate and delicate nature of the embroidery, only highly skilled artisans are trusted with this task. These artisans use a variety of techniques such as applique, cross-stitch, and beadwork to create intricate patterns and designs on the gown.
Caring for Igie-Ohen
Due to its delicate nature, Igie-Ohen requires special care and attention to maintain its beauty and elegance. It should be dry cleaned or hand washed with mild soap and cold water to prevent damage to the embroidery or beadwork. It should also be stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Igie-Ohen is a beautiful and elegant attire that represents the rich cultural heritage of the Edo people. Its intricate embroidery and beadwork, along with its unique features such as the elaborate train, make it a symbol of prestige and respect. By learning about Igie-Ohen, we gain a deeper appreciation for the culture and history of the Edo people and their contributions to the world of traditional attire.
Question and Answer
Q: What occasions are Igie-Ohen worn for?
A: Igie-Ohen is commonly worn during special occasions such as weddings, coronations, and festivals.
Q: What is the significance of the train in Igie-Ohen?
A: The train symbolizes the wearer's royal status and is a sign of respect and admiration.
Q: Who originally wore Igie-Ohen?
A: Igie-Ohen was originally worn by the Oba (King) of Benin during important events and ceremonies.
Q: How is Igie-Ohen made?
A: The process of making Igie-Ohen is a complex and time-consuming one that requires a high level of skill and expertise. It involves selecting the fabric, cutting and sewing it into the desired shape and size, and adding the embroidery or beadwork.
Conclusion of What is Edo Traditional Attire Called
I hope this article provided you with a better understanding of what Igie-Ohen, the traditional attire of the Edo people, is all about. By learning about the features, history, cultural relevance, and making of Igie-Ohen, we gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and significance of traditional attire. Let us continue to celebrate and preserve our cultural heritage through the clothes we wear.
