Cloak "lembd" and headband "anfarro" of a General's uniform · Ethiopia · ID: 3045098
Description
a) cloak, l: 88 cm, velvet, silk, cotton, metal yarn embroidery, sequins, lion hair; b) headband, d: 25 cm/ b: 5 cm, leather, silk thread, metal appliqués, lion hair
This splendidly decorated velvet cloak was part of a magnificent robe, as it was awarded at the court of Emperor Menelik II only to particularly meritorious followers, especially for outstanding acts of war.
The cape replaced originally used lion skins and is modeled on them with the hint of four paws and tail. The lion has been a symbol of the Solomonic dynasty in Ethiopia since ancient times and was elevated to a symbol of rulers in the depiction of the “Lion of Judah”.
Comparing literature
Greve, Anna & Kerstin Volker-Saad (Hg.), Äthiopien und Deutschland, München, Berlin 2006, p. 190, ill. 131
Exhibition
Salzburg, Dommuseum: "Äthiopien, Verborgene Schätze", 23 June - 26 October 1999