Archeological and Historic Survey of Ga Costumes: 15 th-18 th century

Type Journal Article - Historical Research Letter
Title Archeological and Historic Survey of Ga Costumes: 15 th-18 th century
Author(s)
Volume 11
Publication (Day/Month/Year) 2014
Page numbers 25-41
URL http://www.thegadangme.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/02/Ga-costumes.pdf
Abstract
This paper surveys the archaeological discoveries of Ga costumes and adornments from the 15th-18th century. It
also highlights the historical and the socio-cultural evidence of their costumes and adornments, make-up,
headdresses/hairstyles, in terms of sex, status and so on. An important way of looking at the strength and
dynamics of a creative art is by examining its earliest periods. This allows the researcher or reader to get a
glimpse of the ‘life’ or chronology of that creative work, in order to draw tangible conclusions and provide
helpful suggestions. In this pursuit this paper employs interviews, as well as historical and archaeological
accounts by some early European travelers to the Guinea Coast around 1600, in addition to some oral traditions.
Even though scanty, it was observed that clothing differentiated the poor from the rich, and also designated
occupation, mood and the status of royals. The paper concludes by recommending further research,
documentation and also calls on traditional leaders to help sensitize the people through seminars, workshops and
durbars.

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