Mbuti Painting on Bark Cloth
Mbuti People, Ituri Forest, D.R. Congo
20th century
Pounded inner bark fiber (Ficus), organic colorants
29.5 x 18 inches (75 x 46 cm)
Published; Emmanuel Paye, PONGO (1995) page 32 and in our 2020 catalog MBUTI PAINTINGS, number 28
The unusual orange tinged surface, possibly obtained from wild turmeric root, provides a rich background for a kaleidoscope of forest patterning that invokes the energy of insect and plant life.
Like red, the color was associated with barkcloths designed for girls’ coming of age ceremonies.
Price on request
