Dashiki 30x40mm Antique bronze African Print Style Pendant and Earring Set

This immaculate vintage style alloy pendant features a dashiki inspired pattern and is topped with a clear glass dome for a sleek finish. Comes with:

• 20-inch antique bronze effect lobster clasp chain
• Clasp back glass topped matching earrings.

This set is not only durable, but comes ready to wear – for that special glam up moment.  Perfect to compliment any outfit! Nickel and lead free.

Design Inspiration

The name ‘dashiki’ comes from the name ‘dan ciki’ or ‘danshiki’ which is a Hausa and Yoruba word for ‘shirt’. The two languages are mostly spoken in Nigeria but can be found in other parts of West Africa as well. The term dashiki was coined by Jason Benning in 1967 right before he started the mass production of dashiki shirts alongside Howard Davis, William Smith, and Milton Clarke. The dashiki shirts were released under their clothing line, New Breed Clothing Ltd in Harlem, New York City. Dashiki attire is significant to Africans especially those in West Africa due to its symbolic meaning. To many, dashiki attire has a story of struggle and liberation and means freedom while acting as a cultural representation of Africa’s history. Even after its introduction to the west, dashiki still retains a deep-rooted sense of African heritage. 

Interesting facts

What is loosely called dashiki print, is in the strictest terms – Angelina print. Toon van de Manakker, a Vlisco textile designer, is credited with introducing the Angelina print to the world in the 19th century. Toon van de Manakker based the design of the print on the 19th century Ethiopian noblewoman’s tunic as shown in the image below:

Woman’s dress, Ethiopian (Photo courtesy of V&A)

The Vlisco print, now popularly known as dashiki, gained fame in most West African countries such as Nigeria, Togo, Ghana, and Benin to mention a few. In 1970, The popularity of the print coincided with the release of the hit song “Angelina” by legendary Ghanaian band “The Sweet Talks”. People began referring to the printed fabric as ‘Angelina’. In Congo, this print is called “Ya Mado”. Famous Congolese singer Fabregas released the song “Mascara”, in which “Ya Mado!” was part of the lyrics, referring to an attractive voluptuous woman. As the dancers wore this pattern in the music video, the name Ya Mado gained popularity in Congo. The pattern is often also called ‘Mirriam’ in Congo –  after singer and activist Miriam Makeba, as Miriam almost always dressed in distinctive African prints.