Kuba Tcaka or Dance Skirt

Seventeen feet of russet raffia, and not one idle stitch.

The Kuba Kingdom took shape in the 17th century, when nineteen separate ethnic groups were united under a single king. Long skirts like this tcaka, 20th century, Democratic Republic of Congo, were wrapped several times around the body and worn for dances and ceremonial occasions. The narrow panel is a warm russet brown, embroidered along its full length with a chain of interlocking diamonds outlined in pale golden thread, each filled with small dashes.

Soft folds and uneven edges show its handmade, well-worn character.

Lay it out on a long table, or on a long afternoon.