Mbuti Barkcloth Panel, Democratic Republic of Congo

One long ribbon of ink doubles back on itself and never loses the thread.

Mbuti artists of the Ituri Forest, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, painted this barkcloth panel with pigment in the 20th century. Painted barkcloth in the region is commonly associated with wraps and everyday dress, and designs are often drawn without a template. A double line meanders the full length of this pale panel, looping and swerving, then swinging into a broad U near the bottom. The ink is dark gray, and the surface has gentle creases and a ragged upper edge.

About 36 by 14 inches. Tall and narrow, it suits a hallway.