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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- 24
French
This cloth has a diagonal grid pattern in mint green with red, blue, yellow, and green accents. Within in the grid are multiple images associated with women in blue. Also …
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
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
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 …
French
This fabric honors the trade union CDTN that was founded in 2001. The black background features a pattern that resembles a web. The CDTN logo and slogan are displayed as …
French
Fabric produced to celebrate International Women's Day in the DRC. Text (French) Journée Internationale de la Femme 8 Mars. International Women's Day 8 March. The background is predominantly blue with …
French
Fabric produced to celebrate International Women's Day. Text (French) Journée Internationale de la Femme 8 Mars. International Women's Day 8 March with a face of a woman inside the map …
French
Cloth promoting the cultural association of the Elog-Mpoo people in Cameroon. The cloth features the seal of ACTEM flanked by palm trees and a member of the Elog-Mpoo ethnic community. …
French
Cloth commemorating the 53rd year of independence of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. A circular logo at the center bears a shape similar to a star with "53 ans" …