Tuareg peoples live across the Saharan region, spanning the countries of Mali, Niger, and Algeria. Although best known as pastoral nomads traversing Saharan caravan routes since before the 10th century, the Tuareg today comprise not only nomadic groups but also settled agriculturists and city dwellers. Tuareg weavers work on small looms that cannot produce blankets as large as this one. Instead, Tuareg purchase wool blankets such as this, likely made by non-Tuareg weavers, in markets across North Africa. Such blankets provide warmth, comfort, protection, and beauty in a fixed home, tent, or upon a camel (as pictured). A nomadic Tuareg family employed this intricately carved pole to support space-dividing mats and suspend leather bags. The skilled design and openwork of the post, and the metal ornaments embellishing its surface, suggest its role as a prestige piece for a wealthier nomadic family.