The Kuba kingdom, situated on the southern periphery of the Congolese river basin, thrived between the 17th and 19th centuries, emerging as one of the most influential societies in Central Africa. This era witnessed the pivotal role of art and design within the kingdom, with both Kuba men and women actively engaged as textile artists. Presently, the Kuba ethnic groups are dispersed among approximately sixteen Bantu-speaking communities, predominantly within what now constitutes the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Traditionally Kuba men cultivate, cut, and weave the raffia palm fibers into cloth, while women stitch together wide strips of fabric, embroider, and appliqué the designs onto the cloth. Wraparound skirts are unisex garments that are secured with a sash and are used during ritual festivals and performances.