The Emir of Katsina, Sir Alhaji Usman Nagogo, holding a morning greeting ceremony, Katsina, Nigeria

Object Details

Local Numbers: C 1 HSA 10.2 EE 59
General: Title is provided by EEPA staff based on photographer's notes.
Local Note: Time Life Magazine no. 58482 43; Frame value is 8.; Slide No. C 1 HSA 10.2 EE 59

Topic: Leaders; Rites and ceremonies -- Africa; Clothing and dress -- Africa; Headdresses -- headgear -- Africa

See more items in: Eliot Elisofon Field collection; Eliot Elisofon Field collection / Nigeria

Archival Repository: Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives, National Museum of African Art

Collection Citation: Eliot Elisofon Field Collection, EEPA 1973-001, Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution

Collection Rights: Permission to reproduce images from the Eliot Elisofon Photographic Archives must be obtained in advance. The collection is subject to all copyright laws.

Scope and Contents: "Particular styles of turbans or particular textiles or colors may be reserved for specific occasions or for different segments of the aristocracy or their retainers. In the northern emirates, the turban is a central symbol of political authority. For secular political events, emirs and other elites prefer dark indigo-blue turbans; for example, when receiving official visitors, attending installation ceremonies and for equestrian displays." [Arnoldi M., 1995: Wrapping the Head, Crowning Achievements, UCLA Fowler Museum of Cultural History]. This photograph was taken when Eliot Elisofon was on assignment for Life magazine and traveled to Africa from August 18, 1959 to December 20, 1959.

Collection Restrictions: Use of original records requires an appointment. Contact Archives staff for more details.