The origins of this Java lie in Kano, Nigeria. The pattern is an interpretation of a tie-dye motif that is still being used by indigo dyers in Kano today. The large spiral of dots represents the Sultan surrounded by his entourage. The pattern is also popular in Ghana, where it was named after a junction in the city of Obo. In Togo the pattern refers to small change − literally shells, which were once used as money.

Also known as: Emir’s Palace, Obo Junction

• tie-dye
• shells
• sultan
• kano
• nigeria

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• Niels Verhart
• Joachim Wullner
• Matey Philip
• Babs
• Hannah Monette Oum Kalsoum
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This fabric is called Tchi-koui (small change) in Togo. Do you know the story behind it?

• tchi-koui
• togo

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