Kuba Raffia Ceremonial Wrap Skirt (ntshak) — Dr Congo, Early–mid 20th Century
A rare and unusually long ceremonial wrap skirt (Ntshak) in raffia appliqué, made by the Kuba people of the Democratic Republic of Congo (formerly Zaire), early to mid-20th century. Composed of seven rectangular hand-woven raffia panels stitched together, the piece is decorated with appliquéd geometric and abstract motifs in the same tone as the ground cloth — lozenges, crescents, arrow forms, and curvilinear shapes typical of Kuba decorative vocabulary. The technique combines hand-stitching with cut raffia appliqué, producing subtle relief and texture rather than relying on color contrast. These textiles were worn for dances and ceremonial occasions and served as markers of social rank and status within Kuba society.
Dimensions:
Length: 394 cm
Width: 64 cm
Very good condition
Period: 20th century
Style: Other Style
Condition: Good condition
Material: Other
Length: 394 cm
Width: 64 cm
Reference (ID): 1788011
Availability: In stock
