Yoruba Asoke Strip-Woven Cloth

Aso oke is the cloth of the Yoruba for the occasions that matter: weddings, festivals, the large days.

This asoke cloth, woven of cotton in Nigeria in the 20th century, is made of many narrow strips sewn edge to edge. A rich burgundy ground carries fine white stripes along each strip. Rows of small white bars, set like ladder rungs, form a secondary pattern across the width, which gives a subtle checked effect at a distance.

Traditionally woven on narrow looms. Over seven feet long. Hang it, drape it, or save it for a day that warrants it.