BOGOLAN (MUDCLOTH) IS BACK!

(by Fal-bla-bla)

As the authencity of waxprint fabric (Ankara) is being questioned, bogolan, “Bògòlanfini” or mudcloth is slowly but surely making a comeback in African wardrobes.

The fabric originated from the Manding subregion (Mali and its surrounding countries) and means “cloth (fini) with (lan) earth/ mud (bogo). It is a rather thick cotton cloth soaked in a liquid infused with African birch leaves and painted with fermented mud.

The fabric can have various hues from white to black to ocher and hues of brown or beige and it is mostly used as decoration nowadays.

 Sources: Youramba & Aliexpress

However, its sacredness should not be overlooked. Its drawings and signs are emblems of the communities wearing them and are supposed to deliver messages.

It was also used as camouflage by hunters (this may actually be the origin of the fabric).

Finally, its connection to earth is actually supposed to bring about blessings, protect the wearer and celebrate the sacredness and the mystical power of the earth from which it originates.

Today, bogolan is entering the mainstream fashion realm, even though it is mostly used as an accessory. But a bright future is definitely ahead...

Sources: Society6