Tatu African Mudcloth Bogolan Inspired Print Cushion

The print on this cushion is inspired by the classic Bogolan African print design. Earth tones of light and dark browns, black, rust and white typify the design.

The organic patterns and splashes of colour on this cushion, makes even the most ordinary sofa look and feel cosy and welcoming. It’s also a nice addition as a scatter cushion on your bed and for the practical element, use it to make your armchair extra comfy. 

You can either purchase the pillow cover only, or include the inner cushion too (100% polyester hollow fibre cushion inner)

Key features 

• Size: 45 x 45 cm (17.7 x 17.7 inch)
• hidden zipper closure
• Double sided print on both front and back panels
• Fabric Care: Hand wash or spot clean 

You can either purchase the pillow cover only, or include the inner cushion too (100% Polyester hollow fibre cushion inner)

Please note: The exact position of the print can be a bit different from the picture, because every pillow cover has been made out of a unique piece of fabric. 

Design Inspiration

The print on this cushion is inspired by the Bògòlanfini or bogolan (“mud cloth”), which is a handmade Malian fabric traditionally dyed with fermented mud. The cloth and designs inspired by it are popular worldwide for use in fashion, fine art and decoration. Bogolan is treasured in other parts of the world that it is also one of the major exports of Mali, West Africa. It is famous for its distinctive look and also for the rich symbolism behind each piece. Each piece of mudcloth tells a story; each symbol and each colour has a specific meaning. Pieces of mudcloth are passed down from generation to generation and are used to celebrate important life events like births, marriages, and deaths. Warriors sometimes wear red mudcloth in battle decorated with leather symbols. Mudcloth is also used as camouflage in hunting. 

What the Colors Represent: Rust – Represents the strong supernatural powers that protect the hunter. White – Worn by women during ceremonies. The most typical colour of mudcloth is black with a white background. This is the kind of mudcloth most commonly used in storytelling. 

What makes the different colours: Tree bark makes the light brown colour, while mud makes the dark brown/black colour. White is the absence of mud, and is made by applying a special soap and a touch of bleach (which speeds up the process). Fixer, from a tree bark, creates the yellowish colour.