Kuba cloth - Democratic Republic of Congo 86.01

Handwoven in the Democratic Republic of Congo from raffia vinifera palm fibre, this Kuba cloth passes through many hands. Men weave the foundation cloth on inclined single-heddle looms; it is pounded soft in a mortar, then embroidered and embellished by the women with appliqué, patchwork and natural dyes.

Its geometric patterns — squares and rectangles in ivory, brown, clay-red and indigo — are individually designed and named, passed down through generations. Pieces like this were exchanged as ceremonial gifts and marked wealth and standing, with the finest cloths reserved for royalty.

Entirely one-of-a-kind, and beautiful framed, wall-hung, or used as a throw.

Size: 375cm (L) × 58cm (W)