PKC 0915-1

Madagascar Textile

L: 370 cm (146″), W: 60 cm (24″)

Textiles woven from raffia fibers were produced by Sakalava women along the east coast of Madagascar. Rougher fabrics were created for utilitarian purposes, the largest serving as mosquito netting, while finer weaves were reserved for clothing. Both men and women used a single piece of cloth to cover themselves, either draping it over the shoulders or wrapping it around the chest. Women often wore long wrappers that fell to the ankles, creating a garment of great elegance and distinction.

The striped patterns of this raffia cloth appear deceptively simple and straightforward, but closer examination reveals their complexity.

Age: Est. late 19th to early 20th century

Provenance: Private Danish Collection

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