The elegant contrast of light and dark palm fibers forms a rectilinear pattern on this finely woven seating mat. This mat has a tight weave and complex design that distinguishes its high quality. The development of a new pattern is a celebrated achievement in the Kuba kingdom, earning praise similar to that given to a poet. More than 200 patterns are known, named for kings, the designers, or the geometric shapes that they portray. Although patterns are not restricted to those of noble rank, novel designs or those requiring greater skill are expensive and therefore likely to have been made for royalty.