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

Abstract

This paper surveys the archaeological discoveries of Ga costumes and adornments from the 15^th-18^th 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.

Key Words: Ga people, history, clothing, costume, adornment, century