Cover (arkilla jengo), West Africa, Mali
19th or 20th century
This cover is comprised of eleven separately-woven strips sewn together in a typical West African style. This type of cover, known as an arkilla, is produced in central Mali in the inland delta region of the Niger River. This kind of arkilla is known as an arkilla jenngo, associated with Niafunké, near Timbuktu. It is characterized by the use of deep blue-black and white checks. Arkillas are woven by the Songhay-speaking Peul or Fulani people to sell to the Tuareg nomads, who do not weave. The arkillas are used as covers, tent dividers, or at weddings as blankets.
Cover (arkilla jengo)
West Africa, Mali
19th or 20th century
Wool and cotten; tapestry weave, weft float patterning
Collection of Karen A. Bennett
Photo by Don Tuttle Photography
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