Baule Cloth Cushion (83.10.B69)

This cushion is made from pagne Baoulé, the prized handwoven cloth of Côte d'Ivoire. Named for the Baoulé, an Akan people, its roots reach back to the 16th-century Ashanti Kingdom that stretched across what is now Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. For centuries the cloth has been worn at gatherings, ceremonies and festivities, and in weaving towns such as Sakiaré it remains a way of life.

Each cushion is hand-stitched from individual strips of the cloth, so every one is genuinely one-off. Because the strips are joined by hand, handle it gently — hard tugging can split a seam. Seams are easily re-stitched, but splits caused by use aren't covered by refund or replacement.

As a vintage textile, it may carry small flaws — light staining, tiny holes or patched areas — usually subtle and part of its character. Anything notable is flagged below.

Inner cushion included.

Care: hand wash only — never machine, on any setting — in cool water with a gentle detergent. Even then, the natural dyes may not be fully colourfast.

Size: 50 × 50cm