Dida Raffia Dance Skirt

Rust and ochre, stacked like bricks, then let go at both ends in a tangle of fringe.

This dance skirt is the work of the Dida peoples of Ivory Coast, 20th century, in tie-dyed raffia. The Dida are known for textiles of raffia fiber, patterned by binding sections before dyeing, and these cloths were worn at dances, festivals and other important occasions. Here the bound areas have left ochre blocks that alternate with red in a loose checkerboard, separated by dark lines. Crinkled fibers run the length. Thick strands trail from the ends. Forty-five inches long, thirteen and a half wide.

A garment that was clearly meant to be seen moving.