Unidentified Maker, Yoruba culture, Adire Eleko (Cassava Paste Resist-Dyed Cloth), 20th century, Nigeria. Cloth, indigo, 76 x 70 in. (193.04 x 177.8 cm). Mingei International Museum, Gift of Leslie Grace, 2022-044-059. Photograph by Ron Kerner

Adire Eleko (Cassava Paste Resist-Dyed Cloth)

Artist Unidentified Maker, Yoruba culture
Year 20th century
Creation Place Nigeria
Medium Cotton, indigo
Dimensions 76 x 70 in. (193.04 x 177.8 cm)
Collection Mingei International Museum
Credit Line Gift of Leslie Grace
Accession Number 2022-044-059

Adire eleko cloth features fine white patterns that contrast with indigo-dyed fabric. Patterns are created using a cassava paste resist that, where applied, blocks the indigo dye from adhering to the fabric. The paste or slurry can be hand-drawn with a narrow tool, such as a feather, or applied more rapidly with a stencil.

Unidentified Maker, Yoruba culture, Adire Eleko (Cassava Paste Resist-Dyed Cloth), 20th century, Nigeria. Cloth, indigo, 76 x 70 in. (193.04 x 177.8 cm). Mingei International Museum, Gift of Leslie Grace, 2022-044-059. Photograph by Ron Kerner