The Sanlam At Gallery is proud to present the Basotho blankets exhibition in the Western Cape. Titled “Sutha kr Fete” which means ‘make way so I may pass’ in Sesotho, the exhibition showcases the designs of traditional and contemporary Basotho blankets. These blankets hold history, dating back about 160 years when they were first manufactured in England before making their way to Lesotho.
The exhibition features exquisite heritage blankets on loan from the National Museum, as well as a collection of Basotho blankets from the Sanlam Art Collection, including designs from Aranda’s Young Basotho Designer range. These blankets have become iconic markers of Basotho identity and are enduring works of art meant to be worn.
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The Basotho blankets tell intertwining tales of Africa and England, putting together stories of political, cultural, and economic development. The patterns on the blankets were made possible by the invention of the Jacquard weaving machine during the British Industrial Revolution.
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The exhibition also features a collection of blankets from Aranda’s Young Basotho Designers range, showcasing how young designers have incorporated traditional blankets into high street fashion in South Africa and internationally. Basotho Blankets have even been featured in the movie Black Panther, bringing recognition of this cultural icon to viewers around the world.
