Royal Tapestry (Ndop)

This tapestry, also known as an Ndop was created around the early 20th century by an unknown artist from the Fumban in the Bamum Kingdom, which is now part of Cameroon. It shows an idealized version of the royal palace grounds plan. It was likely created as an expression of the king's political power. The fabric is cotton tie-dyed with indigo. The pattern was tightly embroidered onto the cloth and then removed after it was dyed to reveal the still white cotton underneath. The symbols are stand for a different type of building or designated land use. Indigo Ndop cloths like this were symbols of status and wealth in Fumban and usually displayed at important events.