Panel c. 20th century

panel, textile

pattern heavy

panel

loose pattern

textile

geometric pattern

abstract pattern

repetition of pattern

vertical pattern

pattern repetition

layered pattern

funky pattern

repetitive pattern

This Kuba "Panel" is a striking example of the intricate textile art created by the Kuba people of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The piece features a complex geometric pattern of diamonds and hexagons woven with remarkable precision, using a technique known as "raffia cloth" where threads of raffia palm are interwoven to create a durable and visually stunning surface. The use of rich colors like brown, black, and white, alongside subtle hints of yellow and red, adds depth and dynamism to the composition. The artwork is currently housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art.

Comments

minneapolisinstituteofart about 1 year ago

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Finely worked cut-pile embroideries are objects of great prestige in Kuba society. The production of these embroideries is a highly specialized collaborative effort between men and women. Kuba men set up the looms and weave the raffia cloth that provides the base for the decorative elements. The most prestigious form of decoration, cut-pile embroidery, is worked only by women who develop great skill at this time- and labor-intensive art form. The finest cut-pile embroideries, as in these examples, combine a flat stem stitch with a tufted plush stitch, resulting in a distinct texture that enhances the overall design of the piece. Patterns used for embroidery are drawn from over 200 traditional designs which are also used for wood carving, basketry, and ceramics. Kuba artists do not replicate designs exactly, but rather use them as a basis for improvisational experimentation in surface ornamentation.