Archives of knowledge

The African continent is home to myriad textiles from ‘àdìre’ (tied and dyed) and ‘ikat’ (yarn patterns dyed before weaving) to ‘kente’ (stripweave) and ‘ankara’- (printed cotton).

The V&A has collected these textiles as they act as archives of knowledge that connect past, present and future. Slogans and symbols printed onto commemorative cloths mark important historical moments and people. And geometric patterns can carry meaning through associated proverbs. Artists and designers continue to use traditional textiles across the continent and diaspora today.

Written by: Christine Checinska, Senior Curator of Africa and Diaspora Textiles and Fashion

Published: May 2025

Description: High heel shoes
Maker: Ajvani shoes

Collecting Stories

Museum Number
C.113-2023
Description
Fruits of our Forefathers
Artist/Maker
Somers, Xanthe
Location and Date
Peckham, 2022
Materials/Techniques
Stoneware, Fabric, Glazed
Object information
Museum Number
T.79-2023
Description
Ripe and Ready
Artist/Maker
Sanaa Gateja
Location and Date
Uganda, 2022
Materials/Techniques
Bark cloth, Hand beading
Object information
Museum Number
T.2436:1 to 3-2021
Description
Asseulenn collection
Artist/Maker
Imane Ayissi
Location and Date
Paris, 2017
Materials/Techniques
Kente, Cotton (textile), Tailoring, Kente weaving
Object information