Cut-Pile Cloth (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
Cut-pile cloth, also called “Kuba velvet,” is one of several types of textiles that Kuba weavers create from raffia palms. Although weaving this type of cloth is slow and laborious, the result is an exquisitely complex two-dimensional design. The material’s velvet-like texture is created by inserting strands of raffia between the fibers of a loosely woven fabric, and then either cutting the strands or leaving the loops. Patterned raffia cloths, like the examples displayed here, are a sign of wealth and prestige among the Kuba and are used for ceremonial and ritual occasions. They are given in tribute to the Kuba king and are part of marriage contracts, legal settlements, and funeral ceremonies. Even today, a Kuba family’s wealth may be indicated by its textile inventory, and raffia-cloth squares are used as a form of currency.
Gift of Robert and Nancy Nooter
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
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