Description
Story behind:
This Kimono is named after Kwifo, which literally means, the King's assistant. It presents an emblem of the Kom culture, from Cameroon: the double bell. The double bell is a royal symbol. It is used to gather the people at the beginning of ceremonies. For example, at the arrival of the King Afo-A-Kom, the Kwifo was heard.
In Kom, tattooing and scarification were meant for the royal women. When these women were putting scarification or tattoos of royal symbols (like the kwifo), people could see that the woman was from the palace, and they should not attempt to vie for her attention.
These women chose their lovers themselves. Once the girl had seen her first potential lover, it was time for the tattoo specialist to perform the art. According to the Kom, this was to bestow on her a special status among commoners and also served as a warning to men who intended asking her hand in marriage. (Walter Gam Nkwi, University of Buea, Cameroon)
The double bell is presented here by the traditional Berber pompom from Morocco.
The kimono is opened on the front which is decorated with golden and blue pompons. The kimono is made in ntutuere (also known as fugu in West Africa). Ntutuere is one of the most distinctive fabric from Grassfields in Cameroon, which has gained national significance in the last couple of years. It features a plaidish fabric and was introduced in the Grassfields region of Cameroon by the Sultan NJOYA. The technique was taught by Fulanis from Northern Cameroon. It was originally worn solely by kings, but now it is popular in the whole country.
The kimono is made following your measurements (kindly provide them, check our size guide for directions) so it will fit perfectly. It takes 5 to 20 days to get a 60cm×4m strip of cloth, before sewing. For this reason, kindly allow us up to 15 days after placing the order to ship your cape. There are no extra charges to pay after placing your order.
Wholesale prices are available. Price is negotiable. For any information, kindly WhatsApp us at +237 672236885 or email at hello@minsangi.com
Stephanie is 1m70 and wears size M.
Sourced and Handmade in Cameroon.
Thick • Cotton • Gold • Blue • Made to order • High quality • Fast shipping • Free delivery* • Shipping Worldwide • wash cold with mild soap • steam iron is recommended • do not bleach • hang dry in shade • do not tumble dry • avoid spin cycle • gift message available • for questions, kindly email us.
Returns and exchanges are accepted for this item. Exceptions may apply. See return and exchanges in the following link: https://www.minsangi.com/blog/returns-exchanges-and-cancellation-policies
*Shipping: Cameroon : free (check with us); International: from XAF 9000 (DHL with tracking number)
