Whereas textiles in many parts of the world are used simply as clothing, in Africa their uses are extremely diverse, ranging from tent awnings to bed covers and bridal wear. Historically, cloth was frequently used as currency and can still indicate the owner's wealth and standing in the community.

In this fascinating book, Christopher Spring places African textiles in context and describes how the weaving methods in different parts of the country affected the type of cloth produced, including the use of dyes, the importance of certain colors, and the way designs may be interpreted. The weaving tradition still flourishes, and the examples illustrated here provide a revealing insight to African culture and traditions.