Mud cloth is a traditional African fabric that is made by hand. This centuries-old craft is still practiced today by artisans in various parts of Africa, and the brightly colored cloths are often used to make clothing, bedding such as pillow covers, and other household items.
Traditional masks have been used all over the world as a form of communication and storytelling. Masks can be made from a variety of materials, including wood, metal, fabric, feathers and more. They are often adorned with intricate designs and symbols that tell a story about the culture or tribe that created them. Let's take a closer look at some traditional tribal masks and learn about the meaning behind their designs!
These Makenge baskets will breathe new life and personality into any space. They're ideal for adding interest to walls, desks, and other rooms in your house. These baskets have a unique one-of-a-kind craftsmanship that makes them highly sought after. People think of them as collectors' items because of their age and historic features, such as the complicated raised grass patterns; many are valuable due to their history and traditional qualities.
Namji Dolls are made from African Rosewood, a legume tree native to the Democratic Republic of Congo, Cameroon, Gabon, and Equatorial Guinea. After the body of the doll is finished, it's covered with knitted textiles made up of multicolored beads and glass pearls. Metal strips decorate the feet, which were formerly used as currency in the form of cowry shells. When mounted on a wooden base, the doll is complete. Each figure has a distinct shape and expression etched on its face.
The Bamileke people of Cameroon are a unique people in terms of their history. They are cohesive and divided, similar yet distinct, like many African societies before them. The conquest of their territory by Germany in the late nineteenth century was followed by survival under French and British rule during the early twentieth century.