Vintage 1970s Djerma Wedding Blanket – Handwoven Niger Textile

Vintage 1970s Djerma Handwoven Wedding Blanket - Niger

This authentic Djerma handwoven cloth from Niger is a vibrant example of Saharan textile craftsmanship. Dating to the 1970s, it was woven from medium-plied cotton using the traditional pile technique, giving it both visual richness and durability.

• Size: 106" x 63 1/2" (269 cm x 161 cm)
• Materials: Hand-spun, medium-plied cotton
• Technique: Traditional pile weave, with narrow strips loosely stitched together to form a larger textile
• Condition: Very good vintage condition with a few stains and light wear consistent with age and traditional use

Cultural Significance

The Djerma (Zarma) people of Niger are known for creating textiles that carry both functional and symbolic importance. This type of cloth is traditionally used as a wedding blanket, offered to newlyweds as a symbol of warmth, protection, and family unity. It can also be hung as a decorative wall panel in homes or Tuareg tents, adding both color and insulation.

The striking design features bold stripes in multiple colors, separated by intricately patterned panels, reflecting the artisan’s mastery of both weaving technique and aesthetic balance. The pile weave not only adds warmth but also gives the fabric its tactile character, making it suitable for use in both practical and ceremonial contexts.

Heritage & Collectability

Vintage Djerma blankets from the 1970s are now rare and highly valued by collectors of African art and textiles. Their combination of vivid color, traditional technique, and cultural heritage makes them ideal for display, interior décor, or preservation as part of a serious textile collection.

Explore more from our collections:
Cloths and Textiles Collection
Ashanti Kente Cloths Collection