Bernos

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Bernos (also transliterated barnos, burnos) is a wool cloak-like garment and hood woven in one piece, worn by Ethiopian highlanders. Bernos seems to be an adaptation of the Arab version of Burnous; Levine notes that the wealthier men of Menz "wear the barnos, a tailored cape made of dark wool."^[1]

The bernos has a hood-like extension on the shoulder shaped to cover the barrel of a rifle carried by the wearer. Since it has no hole, it prevents rain water from entering the muzzle of the gun. Although members of elite groups do not carry rifles all the time, the style has remained the same.

The bernos was frequently worn by the Highlander elites, but average citizens sometimes wear it in traditional ceremonies and at special occasions. Social status is indicated by the decoration of the bernos.

[edit] References

1. ^ Donald N. Levine, Wax and Gold: Tradition and Innovation in Ethiopia Culture (Chicago: University Press, 1972), p. 29

[edit] External links

• http://www.bernos.org/blog/2006/10/12/what-is-bernos/
• A burnos as worn