Handwoven Baule Cloth Woman‑Size – Bondoukou, Ivory Coast

Handwoven Baule Cloth – Vintage Woman‑Size from Bondoukou, Ivory Coast

• Size: 64″ × 44″ (162 cm × 112 cm)
• Condition: Excellent vintage condition; minor age‑related marks and light wear add character.
• Provenance: Hand‑woven on a horizontal treadle loom in Bondoukou, Ivory Coast, then expertly sewn into a full‑size cloth.
• Use: Traditionally worn by women, now ideal as collector’s art, wall‑hanging, bedspread or sofa cover.
• Material & Craft: Hand‑spun cotton crafted on narrow‑loom strips, then stitched together.

Description

This exquisite Handwoven Baule cloth from Bondoukou is a stunning example of Ivory Coast Baule cloths. Measuring 64″ × 44″ (162 cm × 112 cm), it’s perfect for traditional wear or as a decorative textile. The minor stains and gentle wear only enhance its authenticity, making it a treasured piece of African artisanry.

In Ivory Coast, Baule cloths are more than fabrics they carry cultural identity. Each narrow‑loom strip is meticulously woven with traditional symbols: geometric patterns, stylized flora, or ancestral emblems. These motifs speak of local stories fertility, protection, and community harmony. After weaving, the strips are hand‑stitched to form larger panels, a labor‑intensive process that reflects communal effort and artisanal pride.

Weaving is done on a horizontal treadle loom, where skilled women weave the cotton threads in rhythmic, intricate patterns. The result is a sturdy yet elegant textile meant for clothing, ceremonies, and daily life.

Over time, Baule cloths found new roles: collectors display them as wall art, use them as throws, or drape them as decorative coverings. This particular piece, from the historic town of Bondoukou, captures both function and beauty a timeless African work of art.

Ending & History: The Baule people, centered in Ivory Coast, have woven cloths since the 19th century. Their textiles reflect community values and spiritual beliefs. These fabrics have been passed down through generations and remain integral to cultural ceremonies, rites of passage, and everyday elegance. Owning one is like holding a fragment of West African history.

Perfect for collectors, interior decorators, or anyone looking to add a piece of authentic African textile to their home.

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