Description
Natural dyed wool weft tapestry weave and float patterning on a large section of a Fulani arkilla kerka cloth from Mali, circa 1950s. Fulani mabuube weavers and their wives were the only weavers and dyers of woollen thread in West Africa and had their own little known traditions quite distinct from the more widely dispersed indigo dyeing of cotton. The reddish brown, for example, was obtained by preliminary boiling of white wool in water containing the spores of a particular mushroom before dyeing with a decoction of Hibiscus flowers (if anyone wants the reference for more about this let me know.) These sections of old wool cloths from Mali like this one turn up in Ghana where they were called “nsaa” and are still highly valued as spiritually powerful textiles. In excellent condition.
Measurements 6’3″ x 4’4″, 190 cm x 132.
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.)
