Royal parasol c. mid to late 19th century

This Royal parasol was made by the Fon people with cloth and thread. It is more than just sun protection; it’s a statement of power. Imagine the hours of labor that went into this object, a textile assemblage of various colors, featuring stylized figures and symbols, meticulously appliqued and embroidered. The choice of materials and techniques speaks to the skilled traditions of textile production within the Fon culture. The techniques involved are not those of so-called high art, but rather a set of capabilities closely tied to the social and cultural life. Royal umbrellas like this one served as visual markers of authority, reinforcing social hierarchies. The act of crafting such an object becomes a way of making tangible social and cultural values. The significance of the Royal parasol lies not only in its aesthetic qualities but also in its deep connections to cultural identity, social structures, and the value placed on craftsmanship within the Fon community.