Mossi Woman's Wrap / Skirt Bolster Pillow

An indigo log with a polka-dot pulse.

Mossi weavers of Burkina Faso, West Africa, made this woman’s wrap and skirt bolster pillow in cotton in the 20th century. Strip-woven cotton in indigo is widely made across the Sahel, and rolled cloth forms like this are often padded to give shape. The cylinder is deep blue, striped across with white bands that break into rows of tiny dots. The pale marks are crisp against the dark ground, and the cloth has a faded softness.

About 45 inches long and 8 across. Lay it on a sofa and call it a sculptural cushion.