Thanks to Agnes from our Berlin team, we got introduced to Bryan, who has been dealing in African tribal art and adornment for the last 25 years. We were swept into an entirely different dimension through Bryan's stories and collection of historical stools, chairs, baskets, sculptures, jewelry and even a skirt!

Ethiopian chair from the early 20th Century

Early-Mid 20th Century ceremonial skirt from Tanzania

These Tanzanian tribal skirts were especially exciting. They date back to the 1930s and are from the Magati tribe. Each skirt was made and worn by a girl in the tribe, at around age 12, to celebrate her entrance into womanhood. During a 12 month seclusion from the village, the girls would each weave their own intricate skirt from animal hide (goat skin strips) and colorful glass beads. Every one is unique, making them even more special. Today, the skirts are no longer made, but many have been passed down through generations of families, and so young girls still wear them today.

Tutsi basket from Rwanda

Ivory Bracelets from Western Sudan

Bryan Reeves

Gusher the dog