Shoowa People, Kuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Shoowa People, Kuba, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Kuba Cloths

Four cut-pile raffia panels, together with one long flat weave cloth panel

Three raffia cut-pile panels, framed: approximately 24"by 22"

One Long Raffia Flat Weave Textile, framed: 73" by 26 1/2"

Donor's Statement:

Kuba cloths are made with raffia that is stripped and kneaded using traditional vegetable dyes to achieve their rich natural colors. They are hand woven using two techniques, one is a flat weave and the other is a cut-pile. The designs and patterns are unique to the weaver and the regional leaders who commissioned the works. Traditionally they long ones were worn for ceremonial purposes.