African Art

Each color has meaning.  The most traditional coloring has been the black background with white designs.  This is typically used for story telling or the portrayal of a proverb.

Another color popular among hunters and the Fulani people is the rust.  This color is appreciated because doesn’t show dirt and represents strong supernatural powers that protect the hunter.  The rust color signifies blood either from the hunt, or from warfare.  Because mudcloth is made from the soils, it has been useful to both groups as a form of camouflage.

White mudcloth is perhaps the most difficult fabric, and it’s easy to stain with the dye. White is a color normally worn by women or girls at ceremonial events.  Another rare color is gray which is also worn by hunters. Cream is a natural color of the mudcloth before it has been dyed.

Recently many colors have been added to the traditional colors. Bright reds, purples, yellows, and oranges are constantly being developed by new artists.   Many people view these with disdain as they are not traditional, but they can be a beautiful part of your African Home décor.