In Cotonou, we purchased this beautifully appliqued wall hanging from Abomey. These tapestries are made by Fon men and boys who belong to a family guild that passes designs down each generation. The bright colored cloth motifs and patterns of birds, fish, animals and other symbols were cut of plain weave cotton and stitched onto the black background. Each textile depicts the story of a king, chief, or warrior and tell of their achievements in history. Originally, designated artisans executed these designs to specifications of their kings and they were hung as banners of battle or palace.
Today Abomey is the political capital of Benin and is known for its beautiful palaces and decorated walls. Tapestries are considered to be important and tells the story of the glorious periods in the history of the Kingdom of Dahomey.
