KUBA BARKCLOTH TEXTILE 53, DRC

These special wraps were worn outside, or on top of, the long dance dresses for added decoration and prestige. The central area is barkcloth, made by beating a layer from just under the tree bark until it is thin and pliable.

Number 53 is painted in typically Kuba geometric abstract patterns, similar to those on their barkcloth dance costumes. One end and the two sides are embellished with raffia borders, which are nicely quilted and tasseled.

CARE: The cloth is not fragile and can be pinned onto a wall or panel for display, or framed like a work on paper.

CONDITION: This barkcloth textile has several small holes in the upper third ( see detail).