**Originally Listed At $250**

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kuba, ca. mid 20th century CE. A large Kuba cloth panel presenting bold geometric patterns in warm earth tones: chocolate brown and creamy beige against a deeper beige ground. Traditionally, kuba cloth is woven from raffia-tree leaves; this example is comprised of naturally dyed fabric created via a laborious process of hand-dyeing using mud, indigo, or the powdered bark of the camwood tree. Such cloths are usually created by Kuba men on a single heddle loom. Next they are embroidered by women and children to create an uncut or cut-pile appearance (the latter resembling a velvet or velour texture). Kuba cloths are worn during ceremonial events, especially funerals; however, they are also found in tapestries and home furnishings. The abstract geometric patterns are symbolic of an individual's social and marital status, age, and/or personal attributes or character. Mounted on linen and set in a Lucite case. Size of textile: 19.5" L x 25.25" W (49.5 cm x 64.1 cm) Size of display: 26.625" L x 33" W (67.6 cm x 83.8 cm)

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection, 1980s to 2000s

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#164760

Textile has not been examined outside the Lucite display case but appears to be very good save expected age wear. Lucite display case is also in good condition save a few minor chips, scuffs, and stains. Wired and ready to display!