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Crait+Muller Charenton-Vincennes

514 - Kasaï velvet, DRC Plant fibres, pigments L.
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Estimate €180 - €250
Sale commission
Description
Kasaï velvet, DRC Plant fibres, pigments L. 55.5 cm – W. 55 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 weaving 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 scarified body decorations or those depicted on sculptures, and are also found on household objects such as cosmetic boxes or millet beer cups. Reserved for dignitaries, these fabrics, commonly known as ‘Kasaï velvet’, were intended for use as seat covers or blankets, and could accompany their owner to their deathbed. The skill and time required to produce them also made them a highly valued form of currency.
See original version (French)
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About the sale Paintings, Fashion, Silverware, Jewellery, African and Asian Art, Furniture & Works of Art
Auction location
Auction time 06/25/2026 at 10:00 AM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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