This is an authentic piece of Kuba cloth. It was once framed, so on the back you will see remnants of glue on the corners. Kuba cloth is made from raffia palm fibers, and the women would weave intricate geometric shapes with the fibers to suggest movement. There are 6 panels sewn together and a border going around that. It is very coarse to the touch, but it was suppose to represent velvet. This piece is marked Zaire on the back which is now called the Republic of the Congo. The mat measures 16x20 inches. It is in very good shape because it was framed. There are no pieces of the mat falling apart. This is a very beautiful piece!!!! From a smoke free home.