African Samurai - Costume Designer & Maker

In the final year of my bachelor's in Costume for Performance at the London College of Fashion, my project 'African Samurai' was inspired by the story of Yasuke, an African man who came to Japan in the 16th century as an enslaved person and rose through the warrior ranks to become the country’s first foreign-born Samurai without a registry of armour. In dedication to the historical figure, 'African Samurai' conceptualises the traditional display of Japanese Samurai armour, taking a contemporary approach in telling Yasuke's story. The costume is displayed on a handmade wooden chest and stand, complete with linen undergarments and a set of armour made from raffia, a staple African textile. My project 'African Samurai' intended to breathe new life into Yasuke’s story through the creation of a suit of armour that is unique to him and retelling his story, as well as that of the clan in which he fought.