For ceremonial occasions, the Dida plait strands of raffia into loincloths and skirts, cloaks and kerchiefs. The Dida do not sculpt, and consider their fabrics their prime treasures.
These textiles are quite rare, and on the wish list of many museums because they are no longer made. Mostly used for ceremonial dances, the gauzy, vibrantly colored fabric is made of raffia palm fiber that is then tied and resist-dyed and re-dyed in a striking pattern of rectangles, ovals and circles. The palette of yellow, red and black is derived from plant roots, leaves and minerals.
Further information is available in a wonderful book: African Textiles by John Gillow, Chronicle Books, 2003.
We would be glad to answer any inquiries concerning the condition of these pieces.
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