African Tribal Art - Barkcloth, Mbuti people, D.R. Congo

This sublime barkcloth is from the Mbuti people of the Ituri forest of northeastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. Made from the inner bark of trees, pounded and prepared by men, these were 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. This piece measures 26” high by 10” wide and is lightly mounted on foam core for hanging. Mid-20th century. #5910 $500

African Tribal Art - Barkcloth, Mbuti people, D. R. Congo, detail