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Nancy Seleke, Birds In The Tree Rug, Lebowa, South Africa, 1978
Masana tapestries are handwoven textiles traditionally produced by the Masana people of Central Africa. Woven from natural plant fibers and dyed using locally sourced materials, these textiles serve both practical and decorative purposes. Their geometric patterns and intricate designs often reflect cultural identity, social status, community traditions, and regional artistic styles passed down through generations.
Traditionally, Masana weavers create these textiles using techniques learned through family and community instruction. The resulting tapestries may be used as wall hangings, ceremonial textiles, coverings, or display pieces. Variations in pattern, color, and weaving style can indicate specific cultural influences, individual craftsmanship, or regional traditions.
Today, Masana tapestries are appreciated for their skilled workmanship, distinctive visual appeal, and their representation of Central African textile arts and weaving traditions.
Handwoven in 1978 by Nancy Seleke in Lebowa, South Africa, this pictorial rug is crafted from wool and features a charming scene of birds perched among the branches of a tree. The composition reflects a close connection to the natural world, capturing the beauty and vitality of local wildlife through a stylized and expressive design.
Created within the rich tradition of South African textile arts, the rug demonstrates Seleke's skill as a weaver and storyteller. The carefully arranged figures and decorative patterns combine artistic expression with cultural heritage, transforming an everyday textile into a visual narrative. The use of handwoven wool provides both texture and durability, while highlighting the craftsmanship involved in its creation.
As both a functional textile and a work of folk art, Birds in the Tree offers a glimpse into the creative traditions of the Lebowa region and the enduring legacy of South African weaving.
We do not recommend laundering textiles and do not accept returns of textiles that have been laundered in any manner. Even dry cleaning is too much for some of these antique textiles. For some of them, a very gentle HAND wash (NEVER MACHINE, on any setting) in cool water with a very gentle detergent works, but even then, dyes may not be colorfast, and fabric may be less strong than it appears.
Provenance: Matter Collection
From the collection of Margie and Phil Matter. Margie lived in South Africa, and later she and her husband Phil opened a gallery in Tucson. Everything in this collection was in their home for more than thirty years. Africa Direct recently bought the collection; at 95, Margie wants to share the things she has loved so much.
Height (In): 46.5
Width (In): 52.0
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