Late 20th Century Kuba Raffia Patchwork Embroidered Appliquéd Abstract Shell & Beaded Cloth Textile Art

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This textile is unique to the Kuba people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, whose textile production has a … Read more This textile is unique to the Kuba people in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, whose textile production has a rich history dating back to the 17th century. The process highlights the skills and creativity of both men and women: men weave raffia fiber on a 45-degree loom, while women handle the embroidery and cut-pile sections.

This particular cloth features a patchwork design of appliquéd shapes, beading, shells and areas of high pile create a velvet-like texture known as Kasaï velvet.

Due to the handmade nature of this item, the measurements are variable depending on where you take them as the piece is not symmetrical. The width accounts for the widest point (which includes shells) See less