Boubou Tilbi

19th–early 20th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

The voluminous tilbi is a study in contrasting whites, with undyed natural, creamy silk embroidery applied to white cotton. The garment’s embroidered passages are original interpretations of classic motifs identified by name as nosi (spiral), bata (circles), </i>barma kore</i> (cross with leaf patterns), and kofe banda sikka (cross with variations on the lozenge motif). Lavish elaboration on the back reflects the fact that the garment’s full glory was on display when its wearer was in an attitude of prayer.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

Title: Boubou Tilbi
Date: 19th–early 20th century
Geography: Mali, Jenne
Medium: Cotton, silk
Dimensions: W. 34 × D. 10 × L. 54 in. (86.4 × 25.4 × 137.2 cm)
Classification: Textiles
Credit Line: Collection Nationaal Museum van Wereldculturen, Netherlands
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing