Description
This lovely thick handspun cotton cloth is a rare style that likely emerged in the north west of Ivory Coast as Dioula and Mande weavers modified the blue and white cotton cloths of Mali to meet local demands for prestige textiles. Paired white cotton tapestry weave inserts are set in rectangles of indigo blue thread, with three sets and four sets alternating on adjacent strips. I have seen three other examples of this style over the past decades and there’s one in the Smithsonian, published (wrongly attributed as possibly Mende, Sierra Leone) in their “Patterns of Life” catalogue by Peggy Gilfoy. See also the British Museum cloth Af,WA.3 accessioned in 1877. Our piece has the strips sewn together using a sewing machine, indicating that it’s a late example, likely around the 1960s. In excellent complete condition, just washed, creamy white patina.
Measurements 92 inches x 59, 234 cm x 150
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.)
