Panel c. 20th century

This anonymous 20th-century textile, housed at the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is an example of a vibrant West African cloth called "kente". Its intricate design features narrow, alternating stripes of blue and white against a backdrop of deep indigo, punctuated by colorful bands of red, green, yellow, and white squares. These patterned cloths, often handwoven and embodying rich cultural traditions, served diverse purposes in West African societies. The "kente" panel, with its intricate patterns, is a testament to the vibrant artistry and cultural significance of textiles in West African history.