rectangular panel; light yellowish ground decorated with white and dark brown geometric designs--predominately rows of brown and white striped triangles in asymmetrical design; embroidery stitching in light tan with plant fibers along two outer edges, in horizontal and vertical lines, and in triangles and crosses

Barkcloth panel, mid 20th century

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To make barkcloth, a traditional form of clothing, Mbuti men collect pieces of the inner bark of fig trees, ranging in color from white to reddish brown, and pound them until they are thin and pliable. Mbuti women decorate the surfaces with intricate designs, using twigs and their fingers to apply dyes made from plant saps and charcoal powder. This particular example shows additional embellishment. Notice the stitching on the surface and along the edges, whose motifs mirror the painted decorations.

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Details
Title
Barkcloth panel
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2019.2
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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rectangular panel; light yellowish ground decorated with white and dark brown geometric designs--predominately rows of brown and white striped triangles in asymmetrical design; embroidery stitching in light tan with plant fibers along two outer edges, in horizontal and vertical lines, and in triangles and crosses