Vietnamese Co Tu Tribal Skirt

A rare vintage tribal tube skirt from the Co Tu people (or Kotu) of central Vietnam. Mid 20th century

This cloth was hand loomed on a foot braced back strap loom and consists of a basic ground of black interspersed with three bands of colour, consisting of red, yellow and black warp directional stripes and warp float patterning, the final band incorporating two rows of small white glass beads (acquired in trade with the lowlands) woven into the weft threads of the textile rather than embroidered over the top - a very time consuming method of textile weaving reserved for high status individuals. At present, very few Co Tu people weave their own cloth.

Measurements: 62 cm length x 140 cm total width doubled and sewn into a tube 70 cm wide.

In excellent condition and with little fading, this textile is museum quality.

Co Tu woman. Photo credit: Vietnam Royal Tourism

Textile reference: Textiles and Clothing of Viet Nam: A History