Mali+Mudcloth

=**Mali Mudcloth**=

Bogolanfini or mud cloth was an integral part of life in 1200-1400CE Mali. Textiles make up a third of the wealth of African people. This “mud cloth” was worn at important life passages and is an expression of national identity. Communal influences can be seen in the creation of symbols and patterns in these textiles.
 * Traditional mudcloth uses a centuries old process using numerous applications of various plant juices/teas and mud to dye hand woven cotton cloth. **


 * EXAMPLES**

Traditionally, Bamana women made the mud cloth. Bogolonfin, for Bamana women, has always been an essential component in the marking of major life transitions, such as birth, marriage, and death. Bogolanfini is a living art form, with techniques and motifs passed down from generations of mothers to daughters. Bamana hunters also wear Bogolanfini in the form of red mudcloth laden with leather amulets, forceful visual symbols of the supernatural powers believed necessary for successful hunters to possess. Each piece of mudcloth tells a story. No two pieces are alike and each pattern and color combination has a meaning. The symbols, arrangements, color as well as shape of the mudcloth reveal secrets. The mudcloth is also used to define a person’s social status, character or occupation. Bogolanfini is an expression of Malian national identity and a symbol of belonging to African culture.
 * More about the tradition of Mali Mudcloth.**