African Textiles

Stunning and elegant Moroccan caftan with silver metallic Moorish floral Dupioni silk brocade. Lavishly embroidered on a beautiful woven Dupioni silk.The flowers are embroidered in m...

African Batik Cloth Natural Hand-woven Hand-Printed Cotton Fabric Ghana 10 yards. Colors are organic earth tone beige and light brown in geometric design. Non waxed fabric circa 1950s. Hand made in Ghana Africa. Museum Quality Original Long Piece. 380 inches, (30 ft 10 yards Long) x 46 inches Inches Wide( 4ft). Could be use to make pillows or upholstery. History of Batik in Africa: Batik, a traditional fabric art technique, has a rich history in Ghana, West Africa. The practice of batik involves using wax to create intricate patterns on fabric, which is then dyed to achieve the desired design. While batik has its origins in Asia, particularly in Indonesia, it has been embraced and adapted by various African countries, including Ghana. In Ghana, batik-making can be traced back to the mid-20th century when it gained popularity as a form of traditional textile art. The craft was introduced by artists and artisans who were inspired by the vibrant and expressive nature of batik. These early practitioners experimented with different designs, colors, and patterns, infusing local themes and motifs into their creations. Over time, batik became an important part of Ghanaian culture and identity. It is not only used for clothing but also for various decorative and functional items such as wall hangings, tablecloths, and accessories. The art form often reflects the rich cultural heritage of Ghana, incorporating symbols, proverbs, and traditional stories into the designs. Ghanaian batik artists often employ a combination of traditional and contemporary elements, creating a unique fusion of styles. The process of making batik involves applying hot wax to the fabric using various tools to create the desired patterns. The wax acts as a resist, preventing dye from penetrating the waxed areas. After dyeing, the wax is removed, revealing the intricate designs on the fabric. Today, batik-making in Ghana continues to thrive as both a traditional craft and a form of artistic expression. Many artisans and designers draw inspiration from Ghana's diverse cultural landscape, incorporating elements from different regions and ethnic groups into their batik creations. The art form has also gained international recognition, with Ghanaian batik products being sought after both locally and abroad. In summary, the history of batik in Ghana is a testament to the creativity and adaptability of artists who have embraced and transformed this traditional technique into a vibrant and culturally significant art form within the country. HISTORY OF BATIK In the mid-nineteenth century, the Belanda Hitam, or "Black Dutchmen," are said to have introduced batik to West Africa after serving as indentured soldiers for the Dutch in Indonesia. Returning from their conscriptions with trunks of fine Javanese batik, the opulent patterns captured the imagination of their friends and relatives. However, textile history is complex, and only a handful of recruits returned to West Africa with batik due to delayed payments. Batik, with roots traced to Egyptian mummies, is a tradition found globally, from Southeast Asia to Japan and India. Europeans, particularly the Dutch, played a significant role in industrializing batik from the seventeenth century onward. In West Africa, Dutch Scholar Ineke van Kessel suggests that batik arrived from India over trans-Saharan routes. Local populations, like the Yoruba in Nigeria, incorporated wax printing into their textiles. European traders brought wax and non-wax fabrics to West Africa in the seventeenth century, targeting a population ready for their consumption. European designers adapted prints for the African market...

This is a semi-antique pictorial Egyptian Kilim woven during the first quarter of the 20th century circa 1920 and measures 177 x 144CM in size. Its desi...

nr. 1025 - Rare little Moroccan TUAREG mat, found and purchased by a traveller more than thirty years ago in a remote village in the mountains of Morocco. It's intact, without breaks...

The first in our line of the "PALIMPSEST" cushion series. A pair of ancient Egyptian Tesem dogs from the tomb of Mereruka in Saqqara, taking a stroll under the rays of the Amarna Atu...

Amazing vintage Moroccan Caftan, black silk damask heavily with gold threads. Circa 1960's The black heavy damask kaftan was entirely made by ...

African Mali indigo textile circa 1950. Handwoven, vegetable dyed cotton. We only select the best. This soft textile was sourced in the spirit of Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese philosophy th...

African Mali indigo textile circa 1950. Handwoven, vegetable dyed cotton. We only select the best. This soft textile was sourced in the spirit of Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese philosophy th...

Amazing vintage Moroccan Caftan, gold silk damask threads trim, Circa 1960's The gold floral damask kaftan was entirely finish by hand. Feel li...

Moroccan gentleman vintage cobalt blue caftan embellished with embroidered trim. In Morocco, fashion preserves its traditional style inherited from great c...

Elegant Moroccan caftan emerald green silk embroidered with white threads, circa 1970s. This long maxi dress kaftan is embroidered and embellished entirely by hand. One of a kind ...

Elegant Moroccan caftan hot pink color embroidered with silver metallic threads, circa 1970s. This long maxi poly jersey dress kaftan is embroidered and embellished with traditiona...

This is an antique Egyptian textile woven during the first quarter of the 20th century circa 1920s and measures 184 x 90cm in size. this textile depicts ...

Elegant vintage designer Moroccan kaftan, purple violet color velvet embroidered with Turkish gold threads design all-over. This is an Ottoman style wedding gown with metallic embroi...

Moroccan vintage gold and silver metallic floral brocade dress kaftan with gold trim. Handmade ceremonial caftan from North Africa, Morocco. Vintage exotic 1970s metallic brocade caf...

Metallic red and gold brocade maxi dress kaftan hand made by Moroccan artist. Handmade vintage exotic 1970s gold and red metallic brocade ceremonial caftan gown from North Africa, M...

Moroccan Kaftan Black Velvet Vest with Gold Embroideries This Moroccan traditional kaftan is embroidered and embellished with gold trim. Evening Moroccan ...

Amazing vintage Moroccan Caftan, gold silk damask purple violet threads trim, Circa 1960's The silver and purple with gold floral damask kaftan was entirely finish by hand. Feel like...

Handmade Moroccan goat hair fur babouche slippers. Fabulous handstitched slippers made in Marrakech from natural long goats hair leather sole with elongated toe. Moroccan leather s...

Gorgeous vintage hostess gown, floral multicolored brocade Kaftan, circa 1970s. Exotic oriental floral long maxi caftan dress with wide arm and lo...

Moroccan Akhnif Berber hooded burnous cape in handwoven brown wool. Tribal traditional cape with hood handwoven in the High Atlas Mountains. Tribal design in the back, great shades of brown natural organic wool colors. The burnus (also called a selham) is long, hooded cloak...

African Mali indigo textile circa 1950. Handwoven, vegetable dyed cotton. We only select the best. This soft textile was sourced in the spirit of Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese philosophy th...

African Mali tribal textile circa 1950. Handwoven, vegetable dyed cotton. We only select the best. This soft textile was sourced in the spirit of Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese philosophy...

African Mali tribal textile circa 1950. Handwoven, vegetable dyed cotton. We only select the best. This soft textile was sourced in the spirit of Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese philosophy...

African Mali tribal textile circa 1950. Handwoven, vegetable dyed cotton. We only select the best. This soft textile was sourced in the spirit of Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese philosophy ...

African Mali tribal textile circa 1950. Handwoven, vegetable dyed cotton. We only select the best. This soft textile was sourced in the spirit of Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese philosophy...

These Moroccan silk slippers are handmade to perfection the inside sole is crafted of soft leather. hand-sewn leather sole. You won't want to take ...

Elegant Moroccan white caftan with gold lame metallic floral brocade, This is an exceptional example of Moroccan fashion design dating to the 1970s, Handcrafted in Morocco and tailored for a relaxed fit. It is trimmed in handcrafted “passementerie”. The neckline does up with ball shaped buttons and loops. The body of the garment is loose fitting and flares to the bottom. This long maxi dress kaftan is embroidered and embellished entirely by hand with detailing around neckline, shoulders and cuffs. One of a kind evening Moroccan Middle Eastern Moorish gown. The kaftan features a traditional neckline, embellished sleeves. It is a slip on, the button does not open. In Morocco, fashion preserves its traditional style inherited from great civilizations that found their way to Northwest Africa, such as the ottomans and the moors. Moroccan fashion has been recognized for its style and has garnered a reputation, winning awards in international fashion shows throughout Europe. Marrakech Bohemian, Yves Saint Laurent style. Sizing: No size is indicated, but, being a loose fitting garment, this should fit a range of medium to large sizes, please rely on the following measurements for fit: Shoulders 17” across Sleeves 24” Bust 24” flat Waist 25” flat Hips 27” flat Length 56”, measured flat Condition: It is in very good condition with no wear, tear, stains or odors, this caftan looks like it saw little use and was well stored over the years. This is a beautiful example of 1970s Moroccan fashion design, only now becoming more appreciated and sure to increase in value! Women's long flare bell sleeves Islamic dress...

These Moroccan silk slippers are handmade to perfection the inside sole is crafted of soft leather. hand-sewn leather sole. You won't want to take ...

Stunning and elegant Moroccan caftan with silver metallic Moorish floral damask brocade. Hand made in Morocco great to use for a black tie party or to go to the Opera. Wear it as a c...

Amazing vintage Moroccan Caftan, gold silk damask gold threads trim, Circa 1960's The light gold damask kaftan was entirely finish by hand. One of a kind...

Amazing vintage Moroccan Caftan, gold damask with gold and sage rim threads, Circa 1970's One of a kind evening antique Moorish gown. This authentic caftan has been hand-sewn from ...

This is an antique Gafsa Tunisian kilim woven during the end of the 19th century circa 1900 and measures 220 x 185 cm in size. This textile is designed ...

Old African textile panel with shells,: You can mount on a panel for wall, or place on table, or mount as lampshade. Its colors are sunny. It's wonderful for a sea-house ! B/1677-1   

Handmade Moroccan goat hair fur babouche slippers. Fabulous handstitched slippers made in Marrakech from natural long goats hair leather sole with elongated toe. Moroccan leather s...

Elegant Moroccan hooded burnous cape in off-white fine wool with black and ivory passementerie trim and closure a long tassel on hood, the caftan is fully Lined. The burnus (also cal...

Elegant Moroccan caftan gold and aquamarine blue metallic gorgeous vintage hostess gown. Floral multi-colored brocade Kaftan circa 1970s. Exotic ...

Elegant Moroccan caftan metallic blue floral brocade, This is an exceptional example of Moroccan fashion design. Handcrafted in Morocco and tailored for a relaxed fit with wide sleeves, it is made in the traditional form of a Moroccan caftan using metallic brocade fabric. It is trimmed in handcrafted “passementerie”. The neckline does up with ball shaped buttons and loops. The body of the garment is loose fitting and flares to the bottom. The sleeves are somewhat bell shaped with an open cuff that does up with metallic gold buttons. The fabric is a rich looking metallic thread blend brocade. This long maxi dress kaftan is embroidered and embellished entirely by hand with detailing around neckline, shoulders and cuffs. One of a kind evening Moroccan Middle Eastern gown. The kaftan features a traditional neckline, embellished sleeves. It is a slip on, the button does not open. In Morocco, fashion preserves its traditional style inherited from great civilizations that found their way to Northwest Africa, such as the ottomans and the moors. Moroccan fashion has been recognized for its style and has garnered a reputation, winning awards in international fashion shows throughout Europe. Marrakech Bohemian, Yves Saint Laurent style. Sizing: No size is indicated, but, being a loose fitting garment, this should fit a range of medium to large sizes, please rely on the following measurements for fit: Measured flat: Shoulders 16” across Sleeves 23.5” Bust 20” Waist 24” around Hips 26” around Length 58”. Condition: It is in very good condition with no wear, tear, stains or odors. this caftan looks like it saw little use and was well stored over the years. This is a beautiful example of Moroccan fashion design, only now becoming more appreciated and sure to increase in value! Women's long flare bell sleeves Islamic dress...

Vintage Moroccan Caftan, black and gold embroidered trim, ca. 1970s Vintage Moroccan black caftan in linen fabric with gold trim embroidered, circa 1970s. This djellabah is crafted i...

Elegant vintage designer Moroccan white brocade kaftan, embroidered with Turkish gold threads design. This chic Bohemian white, gold and light turquois...

Moroccan gentleman vintage black caftan embellished with gold trim. In Morocco, fashion preserves its traditional style inherited from great civilizations that found their way to No...

Moroccan gentleman vintage caftan embellished with green trim. In Morocco, fashion preserves its traditional style inherited from great civilizations that ...

Vintage hooded Moroccan emerald green caftan with gold trim embroidered, circa 1970s. This light summery djellabah is crafted in Morocco and tailored for a relaxed fit. The hood feat...

B/1676. Old African textile from Kuba, Zaire: with small shells as ornament. An IDEA: use this item as backrest covering of a sofa !

Elegant Moroccan caftan white and gold lame metallic floral brocade kaftan.Circa 1970s.This beautiful long dress is hand crafted in Morocco and tailored for a relaxed fit with wide s...

Moroccan gentleman vintage caftan embellished with green trim. In Morocco, fashion preserves its traditional style inherited from great civilizations that found their way to Northwe...

Handmade Moorish cashmere brown and turquoise long maxi dress caftan from North Africa, Morocco. Vintage 1980s caftan robe. Caftan with running down the center round braided buttons ...

These Moroccan silk slippers are handmade to perfection the inside sole is crafted of soft leather. These shoes are the traditional Moroccan shoes, all hand made with hand-sewn leather sole. You won't want to take the Moroccan babouches off your feet! Moroccan slippers...

Handmade long maxi dress caftan from North Africa, Morocco. Vintage 1940s caftan robe. Maxi dress caftan with running down the center round braided buttons from the neckline to the h...

Elegant vintage Moroccan green caftan, poly jersey embroidered with black and gold threads design all-over. You could wear this maxi dress kaftan closed or open like a coat. The ...

Elegant Moroccan gentleman damask fabric yellow gold vintage caftan. Moroccan caftan yellow gold vintage gentleman kaftan, circa 1970. One of a kind custom Moroccan Middle Eastern ...

Moroccan gentleman vintage emerald green caftan embellished with embroidered trim. In Morocco, fashion preserves its traditional style inherited from gre...

Elegant Moroccan white ivory and old brocade kaftan embroidered with gold trim threads. Size L to XL circa 1980s. This long maxi dress kaftan is embro...

Vintage Handwoven and hand died raffia panel - Suitable for wall decoration, a long table or to make cushions - An IDEA: use this item as backrest covering...

Rare vintage Tunisian embroidered pillow (only ONE, LEFT), to combine with old Tunisian tissue or carpet LU1379213196871 or LU1379213196841 - SN/FS.

Vintage Moroccan caftan in peach brocade. Maxi dress kaftan handmade by Moroccan artist designer. Handcrafted vintage exotic 1970s ceremonial caftan g...

B/874/1 - Vintage African Kuba textile, suitable for Wall hanging or table - An IDEA: use this item as backrest covering of a sofa !

Elegant Moroccan gentleman vintage caftan silver with gold trim. Moroccan vintage gentleman kaftan silver damask fabric, circa 1970. One of a kind custom Moroccan Middle Eastern ge...