Ceremonial dancing skirt Date Unknown

This Ceremonial dancing skirt was crafted by the Bobo people using shells and fiber. The skirt immediately strikes us with its simple yet powerful composition. Rows of shells are densely packed at the top, giving way to vertical shell lines that cascade down. The pale shells contrast with the muted tones of the woven fiber. This contrast creates a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, emphasizing the texture of the shells and fabric. This texture is not just visual; it implies a tactile experience, suggesting movement and sound as the shells rub against each other during a dance. The ordered arrangement of the shells contrasts with the frayed edges of the fabric, highlighting the interplay between control and chance. The overall effect destabilizes our usual ideas about design and decoration, inviting us to appreciate the subtle nuances of materiality and form.