Fragment from a Royal Overskirt (ncaka kot) c. early to early 19th century

This is a raffia fragment from a royal overskirt, or ncaka kot, crafted by the Bushongo people. The geometric patterns woven into this textile aren't just decorative; they're a visual language, deeply entwined with the history and social structure of the Bushongo kingdom. Each design carries symbolic weight, reflecting the lineage, status, and power of the wearer. The creation of such a garment was likely a communal act, with skilled weavers, often women, contributing their expertise to honor the king. Imagine the weight, both literal and symbolic, of this skirt. As an object of royal regalia, this fragment speaks to the ways in which clothing can embody cultural memory, preserving and transmitting stories of identity and belonging.