Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kuba, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. An extremely long Kuba cloth comprised of tightly woven raffia panels embroidered with interlacing geometric motifs, measuring 17.5 feet (5.3 meters)! The embroidery thread is nearly the same color as the weaving, creating a subtle but mesmerizing decoration! This cloth was used as a ceremonial skirt that was wrapped many times around the wearer and the patterns are symbolic of an individual's social and marital status, or character. The making of such a textile is a laborious team effort: traditionally the cloth is woven by Kuba men on a single heddle loom using raffia-tree leaves and then women and children embroider them. Size: 210" L x 36" W (533.4 cm x 91.4 cm)

Provenance: private San Francisco, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s to 2000s

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#174182

Staining and discoloration throughout. Some small tears and fraying to cloth, but overall great condition.