Images of Commemorative Fabrics from Africa
University of Wisconsin–Madison
Commemorative Fabrics from Africa is a collection of machine-made commemorative textiles from various African countries. This collection provides researchers access to digitized fabrics that are printed with images and text documenting events and individuals of historical, political, religious, economic, educational, and sociological significance to African societies. Throughout the continent, fabric serves multiple functions in people's daily lives. It is used for clothing, shelter, storage, and packing material. The type of African fabric found in this collection also serves as a communication device. When used as a textual and visual document, the fabric becomes a vehicle to commemorate an event or to celebrate a person's life or achievement. One does not need to know how to read in order to understand the messages found in these textiles. In societies where a large portion of the population cannot read, the visual elements enable everyone to share in the reception and transmission of the message that is being conveyed. In this way, the fabric also serves to preserve historical narratives that are important to the community. The pieces in this collection were graciously donated by UW faculty, staff, students, alumni, and other individuals outside the UW.
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French
This fabric commemorates the 1972 gathering of the Organisation commune Africaine Malgache et Mauricienne in Lome, Togo. On a yellow background, the central emblem features the map of Africa in …
French
This fabric commemorates the 12th annual Traditional Wresting Championship that took place in Diffa, Niger in 1986. The image shows two men wresting in traditional costume. Text (French): 12ème Championnat …
French
This fabric celebrates the Zinguinchor Carnival. Ziguinchor is a major city in the southern region of Senegal. On a black background, the fabric features colorful details of musicians, dancers, trees, …
French
Fabric celebrating Niger’s independence. The background displays a red, beige, and green motif similar to that of the Nigerien national flag. It is bordered by elephants. This fabric features a …
French
This fabric commemorates the Bassa Synod of Cameroon. On a light blue background decorated with blue and green images of open bibles, the fabric features a repeating pattern of green …
French
Fabric advertising the Cameroonian printing company Société de Presse et d’Éditions du Cameroun (SOPECAM). This cloth features a blue background with the company acronym and logo in darker blue and …
French
Tunic commemorating the ordination of pastors in the Bassa Presbyterian Synod. This tunic is made from a standard abstract pattern with grided and floral features. The text has been stamped …
French
A blue cloth produced to celebrate the 50 years of independence of the Democratic Republic of Congo. The cloth is adorned with several black stars and cut diagonally by a …
French
This fabric commemorates Senegal’s leadership in 1981, which marked 21 years of independence. The fabric features a photo of Senegal's second President, Abdou Diouf, and his wife. The background uses …
French
Fabric commemorating the 30th anniversary of the opening of the American Embassy in Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo. It features the flag of the Congo People's Republic which was used …