Kuba Cloth 022

The Kuba people of central Congo are highly regarded for their raphia work, weaving 'dance skirts' on single-heddle looms. The panels are individually woven, they are decorated with different techniques; embroidery, appliqué patchwork, drawn-thread work with cowrie shells and bobbles, then sewn together to form one longer piece of cloth, always hemmed and naturally dyed.  

These ceremonial long wrap-over skirts are worn by both men and women where the patterns differ for each sex. This particular piece is a man's skirt featuring symbolic pattern appliqué with bobble embellishment, this piece also features a length of indigo which is not common in this style of cloth. 

This antique and collectable piece is in good condition, a complete skirt. 

Measures 83 x 336cm.