Panel c. 20th century

This indigo-dyed cotton panel was created by an anonymous artist, likely in West Africa. Indigo dyeing is an ancient technique, known for its deep blues achieved through repeated dipping and oxidation. Here, the cloth shows narrow stripes of resist-dyeing, likely achieved by stitching the fabric tightly before it went into the dye bath. The resist areas remain relatively undyed, while the indigo penetrates the exposed parts of the fabric. Bands of supplementary colors – red, green, and yellow – add further visual interest to the panel. You can see how the material and process influenced the appearance of the finished textile. The indigo dye brings a rich depth, while the resist method creates linear patterns. It’s important to remember that the visual qualities of these textiles are inseparable from the labor involved in their production. The repeated dyeing, stitching, and weaving all speak to the time and skill invested by the artist. When we recognize the making, the materials, and the cultural context, we move beyond just admiring the surface, and get closer to the heart of the artwork.