Vintage African Leopard, hand-painted to be used as a tablecloth, however, you can also hang it as an art piece; it's fabulous on a bed or table. I haven't yet used one as a tablecloth, as I showcase them as a tapestry.

This is a one of a kind artisan textile showing how she sees the elegance of the leopard on indigo and midnight blue, gold and mango colors.

I met a very talented Xhosa artist in South Africa and this is her work. I met her while visiting an interesting local entity run by non-Africans. This artist was in a backroom, doing the work, although the credit was being given to someone else as the artist (not unusual at all as I found while living there).

This work of art was lovingly handmade by one artist. I always purchase in quantity because the purpose is not to purchase art, but it is my way of contributing what is needed by the artisan to start or continue their business, and the artist is contributing her talent and knowledge of art and African textiles to me.

The fabric is 100% cotton, but it's difficult to tell that it's only cotton because of the layers of paint and the method these textiles are made using porridge and other traditional organics in a way that some countries use wax.

This tablecloth can be hand-washed, although I have washed in a machine and used the hand-wash cycle. As it was made for use as a tablecloth and art is in every part of African daily life, it is safe to wash.

If you are drawn to this style of work; you will love the pieces by this Xhosa artist.

Approximate Dimensions: 56" X 59"