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BaKuba Ceremonial Skirt This distinctive ntshakishwepy, or noblewoman’s ceremonial skirt is from the Bushoong (BaKuba) of the Democratic Republic of Congo. It is made up of multiple panels of plain weave raffia fiber measuring roughly 13 in. wide and 28 in. long, which are sewn together at the selvedges. The entire dimensions of this garment are 38.5 in. x 149 in. When worn it is wrapped around the woman’s body many times and then secured with a belt. Each panel has been boldly patterned with traditional cultural symbols amid a lattice-like grid of horizontal and vertical lines that are embroidered in black raffia fiber. The central panels have been dyed varying shades of taupe and embroidered in black raffia fiber as well. Each panel is testament to the Bushoong woman’s innate sense of design and ease in arranging diverse elements in an original and visually balanced way. Tiny raffia pompoms that have been dyed a dark brown are sewn at intervals in groups of four around the edges of the garment. This handsome textile is in excellent condition and is truly a one of a kind design. $5800. 
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