"Pelete bite" lower wrapper, late 19th century
Kalabariexpand_more
Cottonexpand_more
Gift of Joanne B. Eicherexpand_more 2016.117.2
Not on Viewexpand_more
Kalabari men and women of Nigeria occasionally wear a unique cloth called "pelete bite" (“cut-thread cloth”), which is created by altering fabrics imported from India. Starting with existing striped or checked patterns, new designs are made by cutting parts of the white threads with a razor and removing them. The technique also produces little holes, adding to the visual effect. The women who create "pelete bite" are important figures in Kalabari society: artists, innovators, and entrepreneurs. Their art transforms imported cloth into a cultural symbol.
Details
- Title
- "Pelete bite" lower wrapper
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2016.117.2
- Curator Approved
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