Description
Indigo was the main natural dye of cotton that was used historically throughout West Africa. One of my favourite types of indigo textile is these striped woman’s wrapper cloths of hand spun indigo dyed cotton from the Yoruba people of southwestern Nigeria. Called kijiipa, they were woven by women using an upright loom in two broad panels sewn together at the centre. In a fine old example like this the central seem and hemming are stitched neatly by hand and there is typically a complex pattern of dark blue, light blue, and white stripes. Once widespread, women increasingly abandoned weaving during the 1960s and these cloths are increasingly hard to find. In excellent condition. Dates from circa 1920-1950.
Measurements 6’6″ x 4’8″, 196 cm x 141.
All items on this site are vintage. That means that they may have a few small marks or blemishes consistent with use. We will try to highlight any significant issues in the description above but in the event you are not happy with your purchase please notify us within 48 hours of receipt and you may return it for a full refund (excluding return shipping costs.)
