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Wrapper (Lamba Akotifahana)
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
A lamba is an untailored textile worn by all ages, classes, and genders across much of Madagascar. The lamba akotifahana takes its name from the weft-float motifs (akotifahana) that adorn it. Weavers added extra weft (horizontal) threads to make them. Representing the final production of lamba akotifahana during the Merina Kingdom before French colonization (1897), this example is densely covered with motifs.
Cleveland Museum of Art’s own descriptionCredit lineWrapper (Lamba Akotifahana), 1800s. Madagascar, Merina Kingdom. Silk (Bombyx mori); overall: 175 x 226 cm (68 7/8 x 89 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Sundry Art - African Art Fund and Textile Fund, 2025.272
