Shoowa cloth - Kuba - DR Congo (No reserve price)

African art and the refinement of Kuba weaving.
Produced in the DRC by the Shoowa, a subgroup of the Bashoowa of the Kuba, these textiles are made from a base of raphia fabric with the threads cut close to the surface, creating a velvet-like effect accentuated by tonal contrasts. The geometric patterns formed represent the body scarifications of the ethnic group or the decorations of sculptures.
These refined fabrics were intended to be used at the royal court, as seats or covers, to enhance its prestige. In many cases, they also served as currency or accompanied their owners into the tomb, covering the deceased's body. It was King Shamba Bolongongo who is said to have introduced the velvet weaving technique to the Kuba country in the 17th century. He had previously introduced the Kuba to the art of forging. These men softened the fibers of young palms and bark to produce long threads, a delicate and laborious task that took several months. Embroidery was then primarily the domain of women, originally pregnant women.
Men's pagnes, mapel, and women's, ntschak, were decorated with motifs that reflected the social rank of their owner.
Ochre, khaki, beige, and black.
Note: Some signs of wear due to use.