Crait+Muller Charenton-Vincennes
229
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Velours from Kasai, DRC
See original version (French)
229
-
Velours from Kasai, DRC
See original version (French)
Estimate €150 - €200
Voluntary lot
Description
Velours from Kasai, DRC
Plant fibres, pigments
L. 48.5 cm – W. 47.5 cm
Produced by the Shoowa, Bashoowa and Kuba peoples of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, these woven fabrics are the joint work of men and women in the community. The men spent many months processing the fibres and palm bark to extract fine strips for making the fabrics, which the women then adorned with short, evenly cut threads of various colours, creating complex geometric patterns. These patterns are similar to the body decorations—whether scarified or depicted on sculptures—and are also found on household objects such as make-up boxes or millet beer cups.
Reserved for dignitaries, these fabrics, commonly known as ‘Kasai velvet’, were intended for use as seat covers or blankets, and could accompany their owner right up to their deathbed. The skill and time required to produce them also made them a highly valued form of currency.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale
Handles, Paintings, Wines, Toys, Silverware, Jewellery, Asian Art, Furniture & Works of Art
Auction location
Auction time
10/29/2026 at 1:30 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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