Length 64 in, width 34 in.

In Kuba culture, men are responsible for raffia palm cultivation and the weaving of raffia cloth. Several types of raffia cloth are produced for different purposes, the most common form of which is a plain woven cloth that is used as the foundation for decorated textile production. Men produce the cloth on inclined, single-heddle looms and then use it to make their clothing and to supply foundation cloth to female members of their clan section. Only men and boys participate in or even watch the weaving process. The squares are approximately 26 x 28 inches. Each square takes about 2 to 3 hours to create, although some skilled weavers can create 10 to 15 squares a day. The cloth is coarse when it is first cut from the loom, so it is then pounded in a mortar, which softens it and renders it ready for the application of surface decoration, for which women are responsible. The cloth is dyed before embroidering.

Condition: Good Condition, showing age. No damage or apparent defects to report. If documentation is not listed or photographed, the lot is sold without documentation. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact Woodard Lipe Fine Art and Auction with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices with approximate shipping quotes available through UPS and their international partners for out of country. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer.