The Masagá glassmakers have preserved the culture and tradition of manufacturing raw black glass, a closely guarded secret that has endured for nearly two centuries. This patriarchal organization is composed of guild members who trace their lineage to ancestors who, according to oral tradition, migrated from Egypt to Nupeland in the mid-19th century.
The Masagá glassmakers of Bida are renowned for their craftsmanship in creating glass beads and bangles, using both modern glass and a locally manufactured raw glass known as bikini. Bikini is a shiny black molten glass that was historically produced and used by the Masagá artisans before the advent of modern civilization and the introduction of imported glass bottles. From the mid-19th to the 20th century, bikini served as the primary raw material for glasswork. However, the high cost and difficulty of sourcing the necessary raw materials led to the eventual replacement of bikini glass with more readily available recycled glass.
Today, the production of bikini glass is on the verge of extinction. The only surviving custodian of the secret formula and technology for producing bikini glass is a 90-year-old man. Without immediate action, this invaluable knowledge risks being lost forever. However, there is a glimmer of hope. In November 2019, the Masagá glassmakers agreed to revive and sustain the tradition of bikini glass production.
The hope of every Nupe son and daughter is that the esteemed Masagá culture of bikini glassmaking will not perish. In this regard, it is fitting to acknowledge and salute His Royal Highness, Alhaji (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu of Nupe and Chairman of the Niger State Council of Traditional Rulers, for his steadfast support of Nupe culture and heritage.
External links: https://guardian.ng/opinion/the-lost-legacy-of-bida-bikini/
