Vintage 1970s Djerma Wedding Blanket – Handwoven Niger 109" x 60"

Vintage 1970s Djerma Handwoven Wedding Blanket - Niger

This authentic Djerma handwoven cloth from Niger is a remarkable example of Saharan textile artistry. Dating to the 1970s, it was crafted from thick plied cotton using the traditional pile technique, giving it a rich texture and distinctive appearance.

• Size: 109" x 60" (278 cm x 152 cm)
• Materials: Hand-spun, thick 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 use

Cultural Significance

Djerma (Zarma) textiles have long been prized across the Sahel for their durability, beauty, and cultural value. In Niger, cloths like this are traditionally used as wedding blankets, symbolizing warmth, protection, and the joining of two families. They are also hung on walls to decorate homes, especially during important celebrations.

The pile weaving technique gives the cloth a soft, textured surface while providing insulation against cold desert nights. The strips are woven individually before being loosely stitched together, allowing for flexibility and easy repair over time—a testament to both functional design and aesthetic sensibility.

Heritage & Collectability

Vintage Djerma wedding blankets are increasingly rare, making them highly collectible. They appeal to textile enthusiasts, collectors of African art, and interior designers seeking authentic statement pieces. Whether used as a decorative wall hanging, a bed cover, or preserved as a collectible, this textile carries the spirit and heritage of the Sahara Desert.

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