This woven textile, known as an arkilla, which means “mosquito net” in Arabic, is traditionally given to brides as a prestigious wedding gift. An arkilla indicates status and is first displayed during the ceremony to mark the couple’s union. Later it is used as a bed cover or hanging. Traditionally, Fulani men handweave the arkilla. The checkerboard design identifies this as the type called arkilla jenngo, which likely was made for a wealthy Tuareg patron. Though designs vary, these hangings all share a mix of wool and cotton and usually feature indigo-dyed thread, which is the case for TMA’s example. 

Fulɓe artist, Arkilla Jenngo (Ceremonial Hanging in Wedding Tent). Cotton, wool, indigo dye, and natural dye, 20th century. 101 × 42 1/2 in. (256.5 × 108 cm). Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Richard H. Slater, 1981.128. Not on view. *

Image Description: A handwoven textile features a checkerboard design in white and a blue so dark it appears black. The checkerboard pattern frames three evenly spaced vertical panels in the center of the textile. These panels are filled with symmetrical bands of red, yellow, and white in intricate geometric motifs like zigzags and diamonds. The edges of the textile are finished with short fringes. 

*While our galleries undergo changes in preparation for our reinstallation, you can find this and thousands of other works from the collection online any time.