Ethiopian Christianity in the V&A: Song of Songs and Selassie I

Join us for a two-day examination of Ethiopian Christianity and faith representation in reggae music aligned with the Ethiopian Psalter (service book).

Talk
  • Friday, 17 January 2025 - Saturday, 18 January 2025
  • V&A South Kensington
  • £25.00
Book now
+44 (0)20 7942 2000

  • Friday, 17 January 2025 - Saturday, 18 January 2025

  • 18.30 – 21.45 (Friday) and 13.30 – 17.00 (Saturday)

  • V&A South Kensington

    Cromwell Road
    London, SW7 2RL

  • Hochhauser Auditorium

  • Sign up to the African Heritage Newsletter

  • Tickets cost £25.00

    Booking is essential.

Book now
Ethiopian Christianity in the V&A: Song of Songs and Selassie I photo
Day One: 
Recent research has provided new information about the believed scribe and possible owner of the Psalter. Theologians and historians will deliver presentations that provide insight into the practice of Christianity in Ethiopia dating back to 4th century AD and the structure and decoration of the Book’s 150 pages.

The National Art Library’s Chief Librarian, Richard Espley, will discuss the Book’s acquisition by the V&A – its seizure during the 1868 Battle of Maqdala and subsequent sale to the museum. Visitors will acquire knowledge regarding the relevance of legislation to the V&A’s retention of the Book on behalf of the nation within these contexts.

Day Two:
The visual representation of Emperor Haile Selassie I (the final Ethiopian leader of the Solomonic dynasty) within African diasporic music will be explored, across the development of Rastafarianism in 1930s Jamaica, through to the political and cultural use of his image within reggae, dub music, and sound system culture. 

Detailed event programme to be announced.

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Header image: Service book, containing psalms, biblical hymns, Song of Songs and praises of the Virgin Mary, [17--]