Central Africa, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Kuba, ca. mid 20th century CE. A large Kuba cloth comprised of 4 panels, each one presenting basket weave and other bold geometric patterns in warm earth tones: chocolate brown against a creamy beige ground. Traditionally, kuba cloth is woven from raffia-tree leaves; this example is comprised of naturally colored 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. Size: 23.625" L x 22.75" W (60 cm x 57.8 cm); 28.375" L x 27.875" W (72.1 cm x 70.8 cm) framed
A note on the verso states, "#14 in SRG Exhibit". In addition, "Phyllis Ross" is handwritten on a piece of blue tape on the verso. Phyllis Ross is a specialist in the history of 20th century design and decorative arts. Ross has curated exhibitions at the Museum of the City of New York and is the author of "Gilbert Rohde: Modern Design for Modern Living" (Yale University Press, 2009); Rhodes was an important American furniture designer of the 1930s and 1940s.
Provenance: private East Coast, USA collection; note on verso states, "#14 SRG Exhibit". In addition, "Phyllis Ross" is handwritten on a piece of blue tape on the verso, suggesting that Ross may have owned this piece. Phyllis Ross is a specialist in the history of 20th century design and decorative arts.
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#140198
Condition
Cloth is in very good condition. Set against a linen backing in a glass-fronted wooden frame that is also in very good condition. A note on the verso states, "#14 in SRG Exhibit". In addition, "Phyllis Ross" (a specialist in the history of 20th century design and decorative arts) is handwritten on a piece of blue tape on the verso.