Barkcloth panel

ca. 1900–50
Not on view
Barkcloth fabrics were worn as wrappers by men, women, and children. Composed of three panels finely sewn together with raffia, this example spreads open into the subtle shape of a fan. A central dark panel is flanked by two lighter lateral panels. This example’s small scale suggests that it was either made to be worn by a child or as a display piece. If worn, the fabric would have been gathered around the body, passed between the legs and secured at the waist with a belt, creating a form of puffy trousers.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Barkcloth panel
  • Artist: Mangbetu artist
  • Date: ca. 1900–50
  • Geography: Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uele River region
  • Culture: Mangbetu people
  • Medium: Barkcloth (Ficus natalensis or Ficus platyphylla), dye
  • Dimensions: (Approximate) H. 28 × W. 35 in. (71.1 × 88.9 cm)
  • Classification: Barkcloth
  • Credit Line: Gift of Georgia Sales, 2017
  • Object Number: 2017.676.1
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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