Description:

Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kuba, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. An extremely long Kuba cloth comprised of tightly woven raffia panels embroidered with interlacing geometric motifs, measuring 17.5 feet (5.3 meters)! The embroidery thread is nearly the same color as the weaving, creating a subtle but mesmerizing decoration! This cloth was used as a ceremonial skirt that was wrapped many times around the wearer and the patterns are symbolic of an individual's social and marital status, or character. The making of such a textile is a laborious team effort: traditionally the cloth is woven by Kuba men on a single heddle loom using raffia-tree leaves and then women and children embroider them. Size: 210" L x 36" W (533.4 cm x 91.4 cm)

Provenance: private San Francisco, California, USA collection, acquired 1970s 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.

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#174182

  • Condition: Staining and discoloration throughout. Some small tears and fraying to cloth, but overall great condition.

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Shipping

SHIPPING LOGISTICS: As a courtesy to our clients worldwide, Artemis Gallery is happy to handle shipping for most lots sold, taking the hassle (and high cost!) out of having to arrange shipping on your own. Shipping costs will be added to your invoice at auction's end based on information given when you registered to bid - we strive to offer the most economical shipping costs to ensure safe transit. Our shippers of choice are DHL for International shipments and UPS for domestic shipments, but we are able to ship via other carriers at the buyer's expense as deemed necessary or by request.

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October 11, 2024 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $299 $25
$300 $999 $50
$1,000 $1,999 $100
$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,500
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $20,000