Weavers of Iseyin
“Aso-ofì does more than exist as a treasured Yoruba fabric and a commodity in Iseyin, its original home. It reflects a societal fabric interwoven with the changing cultural values, social norms, religious beliefs, education and economic systems of the Iseyin community.
Besides being a commemorative attire, aṣọ-òfì, due to its durability and timelessness, can become a family heirloom, usually travelling down generations, from mothers to daughters and fathers to sons. Inasmuch as the textile succeeds as multiple generations can wear it, so is it a transgenerational profession for the people of Iseyin, whose ancestral and primary occupation it is to produce the handwoven fabric.”
Foyin Ejilola and I visited Iseyin, Oyo state to document this photo essay that was commissioned by The Republic.
This photo essay was featured in the vol. 8 edition of TR magazine— Reimagining Nigerian Heritage. This issue focuses on the unknown and underdiscussed stories that reflect the richness of Nigeria’s heritage across its different cultures.
