Global Trade and Cultural Authentication: The Kalabari of the Niger Delta

Global Trade and Cultural Authentication, edited by Joanne Eicher, highlights the artistry and ingenuity of Kalabari artisans, who have been working with globally imported textiles for centuries. The 22 essays in the volume offer an in-depth understanding of Kalabari textiles, aesthetics, and engagement with global trade networks, demonstrating Africa's critical involvement in global trade.

Format: Hardback
Length: 330 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Indiana University Press

The Kalabari people, who primarily reside in the eastern Niger Delta region of western Africa, have a renowned reputation for their artistry in working with globally imported textiles and garments for centuries. This edited volume, edited by Joanne Eicher, showcases the intricate complexity and enduring aesthetic and ingenuity of Kalabari artisans.

Comprising 22 essays, this edited volume features the contributions of leading Nigerian and American scholars, providing a comprehensive and nuanced understanding of Kalabari textiles, aesthetics, and their engagement with past and present global trade networks. By examining dress and textiles as a lens, Global Trade and Cultural Authentication delves into the centuries-long role of the Kalabari people in the global trade arena. Their economic interconnectedness demonstrates that Africa was never a dark continent but rather critically involved in a global trade built around the remarkable resourcefulness and imagination of the Kalabari people.

Through their artistic creations, the Kalabari people have not only preserved their cultural heritage but also played a significant role in shaping global trade networks. Their innovative techniques, such as beadwork and embroidery, have attracted international attention and have been incorporated into contemporary fashion designs. The Kalabari people's engagement with global trade has also facilitated cultural exchange and mutual understanding, as they have interacted with diverse cultures and traded goods across continents.

In conclusion, Global Trade and Cultural Authentication offers a valuable insight into the artistry, complexity, and historical significance of Kalabari textiles and their role in global trade. By highlighting the interconnectedness of the Kalabari people with other cultures and their contributions to the global trade landscape, this edited volume contributes to our understanding of the rich and diverse cultural heritage of Africa.

Weight: 862g
Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780253062598