Barkcloth
Mbuti people, D.R. Congo
Bark, natural pigment
30" (76.2 cm) high by 36" (91.4 cm) wide
20th century

This graphic barkcloth is from the Mbuti people of the Ituri forest of northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. These were made from the inner bark of trees, pounded and prepared by men, then painted by women with twigs, fingers or twine. They were folded in half over a sash or belt and worn as ritual dress for celebrations and rites of passage. There is one small hole at center right.
#3507 

$450