KUBA RAFFIA SKIRT END

Ca. 20th century AD. > A Kuba raffia skirt panel woven from natural raffia fibres and decorated with intricate geometric designs. The composition features a central field of dense red patterning, formed from repeating angular motifs arranged in a rhythmic lattice. This central section is framed by lighter borders ornamented with dark linear designs that create a striking contrast with the red ground. The panel demonstrates the characteristic cut-pile and embroidered decoration associated with Kuba textile traditions, where raffia cloth is enhanced through surface embellishment and complex patterning. The carefully structured borders and central field emphasise the vertical format of the textile. Textiles of this type formed part of ceremonial skirts worn by Kuba women, where elaborately decorated raffia panels were assembled to create layered garments. Kuba raffia cloth is highly regarded for its technical sophistication and its role in expressing status and identity within Kuba society. > > Size: 1720mm x 670mm; Weight: 720g > Provenance: Prince collection, 1990s-2014; Ex. Private collection 1970s-1990s. > >

Estimate:$200.61

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