African Kuba Raffia & Cowrie Shell Dance Skirt - 1950s

Estimate | $4,000 - $5,000

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kuba, ca. mid 20th century CE. Framed Kuba cloth comprised of three panels sewn together - each one presenting bold geometric patterns - a plethora of diamond and chevron motifs - in warm earth tones: chocolate brown, tawny red, and warm tan on a creamy beige ground. Traditionally, kuba cloth is woven from raffia-tree leaves; this example is comprised of naturally colored fabric created via a laborious process of hand-dyeing using mud, indigo, or the powdered bark of the camwood tree. Such cloths are usually created by Kuba men on a single heddle loom. Next they are embroidered by women and children to create an uncut or cut-pile appearance (the latter resembling a velvet or velour texture). Kuba cloths are worn during ceremonial events, especially funerals; however, they are also found in tapestries and home furnishings. The abstract geometric patterns are symbolic of an individual's social and marital status, age, and/or personal attributes or character. Size: 20" W x 19.75" H (50.8 cm x 50.2 cm); 25.25" W x 25.875" H (64.1 cm x 65.7 cm) framed

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