 Shoowa 101 31 x 23.5" SOLD |
 Shoowa 111 25 x 23.5" SOLD |
 Shoowa 104 23 x 20" SOLD |
Shoowa 101 31 x 23.5" SOLD |
Shoowa 111 25 x 23.5" SOLD |
Shoowa 104 23 x 20" SOLD |
 KUBA Shoowa 107 29.5 x 23" SOLD |
 Shoowa 108 23.5 x 20" SOLD |
 Shoowa 109 22.5 x 19" SOLD |
 Shoowa 105 24.5 x 20" SOLD |
 Shoowa 106 23.5 x 22.5" SOLD |
 Shoowa 110 21 x 21.5" SOLD |
 Shoowa 103 23 x 20.5" SOLD |
 Shoowa 112 23.5 x 22" SOLD |
 Shoowa 115 24 x 21.5" SOLD |
 Shoowa 114 22 x 20.5" SOLD |
The true jewels of textile art are the small Shoowa cut-pile cloths. Their compex interplay of geometric symbols, inventive rhythm and balance, uniquely individual designs and tight "velvet"surfaces created objects so mysteriously alluring the Kuba people traded them as currency and they were the standard by which a family's wealth and status were judged.
These raffia cut-pile cloths, woven by men, were embroidered by women with no stitching visible on the back. Highly prized for their complex patterns, they are further embellished with tight tufting, leading to the nickname "Kasai velvet". They were sewn together for ceremonial dress and covered royal stools.
These cloths are not fragile. They can be pinned to a wall, framed, or even used as a fabric for clothing or upholstery. Folds or wrinkles can be removed with careful misting and ironing from the back.
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