Description
Apparently unique cloth collected recently in Ghana that combines the distinctive rows of supplementary weft float motifs typical of Fulani munnyuure cloths woven in Mali with the red and brown wool stripes found on cloths woven, also by Fulani weavers, in the town of Dori in northern Burkina Faso. As we can see in the detail the brown wool stripes and motifs give way to hand spun indigo dyed cotton in the top few strips. The white ground is also hand spun cotton. Bernhard Gardi, who is the expert on wool weaving in West Africa comments on this piece “This whole area around Dori is very interesting. The creativity in textile weaving clearly relates to its location on the edges of powerful cultural regions such as Massina, Hausa, and Mossi. Weaving techniques came from the Massina, while cotton was acquired from the Mossi farmers. But unlike in the Massina, weaving in the Liptako—in fact, in all the area east of Timbuktu—was carried out by “non-casted, enslaved or formerly enslaved Fulani weavers.” This cloth seems to be a literal expression of this complex heritage.
Made up of 9 strips each 16 cm width. Dates from mid twentieth century. In excellent complete condition.
Measurements 206 cm X 145, 81 inches X 57.
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.)
