Description:

West Africa, Mali, Bamana (Bambara) People, ca. 1970s. constructed from hand-spun cotton, woven into narrow strips and meticulously stitched together. The bold, graphic designs are achieved through an intricate dyeing process involving natural, locally sourced materials. Fermented riverbed mud (bogo), aged for up to a year, provides the deep black pigment, while tannin-rich plant dyes—most notably from the n’gallama tree—serve as mordants to fix the pigment to the cloth. Traditional caustic soda or ash-based soaps are used selectively to bleach areas and create contrasting designs. The symbols embedded in the textile carry significant cultural meaning, often depicting warriors, tools, and ancestral motifs. During the 1970s, pieces like this were produced not only for local use but also for export, serving both fashion markets and collectors interested in African art and textiles. Despite this global appeal, artisans retained traditional methods and spiritual connections to their craft. Size: 90" W x 67" H (228.6 cm x 170.2 cm)

** PICKING UP / SHIPPING - Available for local pick-up in Santa Fe, NM only. Private shipping arrangements can also be arranged by the buyer.

#196830

  • Condition: This is an exceptionally large piece, professionally mounted on a stretcher for preservation and display. It is not recommended to remove it from the stretcher.

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Shipping

Bidder Can Make Shipping Arrangements, Local Pick-Up, In-House Shipping

August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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