Handwoven Baule Cloth (58″ × 39½″) – Ivory Coast Vintage Textile

Handwoven Baule Cloth – Woman Size (58″ × 39½″) from Ivory Coast

This exquisite Handwoven Baule cloths piece originates from Bondoukou town in Côte d'Ivoire, West Africa. Crafted on a traditional horizontal treadle loom, it's an authentic example of Ivory Coast Baule cloths artistry.

• Size: 58″ × 39½″ (147 cm × 100 cm)
• Condition: Very good vintage condition with a few light stains and wear signs of age and use that add character.
• Weave & Construction: Narrow strips sewn together into a vibrant larger textile.

This versatile Baule cloth can be worn as a wrap, or displayed as a wall hanging, sofa or bed covering perfect for collectors of artisan African textiles.

About Baule Cloths

Handwoven Baule cloths are traditional textiles made by the Baule people of Ivory Coast. Each strip is intricately woven on a horizontal treadle loom, then stitched together to form larger panels. The motifs and symbols woven into the cloth often carry deep meaning, from proverbs and ancestral blessings to depictions of local flora and fauna. Natural fibers such as cotton and sometimes raffia are dyed using local pigments, producing earthy, rich tones.

Historically, Baule cloths were worn by women and used in cultural ceremonies. Today, they continue to be valued for their craftsmanship and cultural heritage, appreciated both in Ivory Coast and globally.

History & Symbolism

The Baule weaving tradition dates back centuries, evolving as each master weaver added personal flourishes and symbolic imagery. Symbols might represent fertility, wisdom, strength, or communal values. These textiles were tools of communication, status, and identity among community members. Over time, Baule cloths have found new roles as decorative art pieces in homes and galleries worldwide, preserving the legacy of West African weaving traditions.

This vintage cloth is a real piece of authentic African art imbued with history, craftsmanship, and cultural richness.

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