230 - Velvet from Kasai, DRC

Velvet from Kasai, DRC Plant fibers, pigments L. 57.5 cm - W. 49.5 cm Created by the Shoowa, Bashoowa, and Kuba peoples of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, these woven textiles are the joint work of both men and women in the community. The men spent many months processing palm fibers and bark to extract fine strips used for weaving the fabrics, which the women then adorned with short, evenly cut threads of various colors, creating complex geometric patterns. These patterns are similar to the scarified body decorations or those depicted on sculptures, and are also found on household objects such as cosmetic boxes or millet beer cups. Reserved for dignitaries, these fabrics, commonly known as “Kasaï velvet,” were intended to serve as seat covers or blankets and could accompany their owner all the way to their deathbed. The skill and time required to make them also made them a highly valued form of currency.