CLOTH RAFFIA PANEL TEXTILE SHOOWA PREMIUM KASAAI VELVET CURRENCY KUBA CLOTH "Butala" PREMIUN QUALITY Ethnic Group: Kuba Country of Origin: Democratic Republic of Congo Materials: Raffia, Natural Dye Approximate Age: 30+ years Dimensions: 28.0" by 31.0" Weight: 280 grams; Overall Condition: Used, good but with some stains because of usage. Kuba cloth is the embroidered and appliqued fabric of the Kuba people from DR of Congo and is amongst the best-known textile of the ancient African tradition of raffia cloth weaving. It's geometric art forms have been the source of inspiration for artists such as Picasso, Klee and Matisse who respectively owned extensive collections. Kuba textile art is created from single panels of cloth embroidered with dyed raffia thread and is cut to create a plush pile cloth. These panels are not worn but displayed, and serve as currency and markers of prestige. This is one such prestige panel. Like almost all so-called Kasai "velvets", the overall composition is asymmetrical and irregular and no two panels are identical. Composed of a series of interlocking knotted designs in tan and black, the visual complexity and geometrical structure make these fabrics a favorite. The variation of compositions are staggering! In Kuba culture, the cloth also forms an important part of funeral rites. High quality, specific patterned raffia dress is key to being recognized by clan ancestors. These designs are handed down from generation to generation and it is the strength of this tradition that has kept the skills of making Kuba cloth alive.