Cushion cover, red leather decorated with compartmented geometrical designs made by removing parts of the top layer of leather. Brown leather fringe all round with a larger triangular beige piece sewn into each corner; sewn with leather thong, leaving a slit in one edge for filling.
Leatherworking was an occupation that many Hausa farmers took up during the long dry season. Appointed chiefs Sarkin, controlled craft production and patronage, while itinerant traders distributed their products to distant markets. This cushion cover may have been purchased from a trader, as travelling traders carried unfilled cushion covers. At marriage Hausa grooms are often given rectangular, leather-fringed cushion covers like these filled with cotton from the silk cotton tree. A bride would be given a round cushion.
