African Hausa Leather Mat — Handcrafted in Nigeria (158 cm)
$1,595.00
African Hausa Leather Mat — Handcrafted in Nigeria (158 cm)
Handcrafted Hausa leather mat in tan, black and off-white.
Features vintage patina, natural creases and artisanal texture.
One-of-a-kind piece suitable for floor use or wall display.
Diameter: 158 cm.
In stock
Free shipping on orders over $100!
- Satisfaction Guaranteed
- No Hassle Refunds
- Secure Payments
Description
African Hausa Leather Mat — Handcrafted in Nigeria (158 cm)
Handcrafted by Hausa leather artisans of northern Nigeria, this vintage leather mat is made using traditional tanning, dyeing and hand-stitching techniques passed down for generations. Each panel of tan, black and off-white leather is individually cut, dyed and stitched to create a bold geometric surface with deep cultural symbolism and a naturally aged patina.
This piece carries an authentic, well-worn character. Expect creases, marks, small nicks and tonal variations. These are natural traits of hand-prepared leather and contribute to the mat’s heritage feel. Over time, the leather softens and develops even more depth and warmth.
Traditionally used in Hausa households for seating, ceremonial gatherings and daily living, these mats bring an earthy, sculptural presence into modern interiors. They work beautifully as a floor piece, layered textile element or striking wall hanging. The warm tones and lived-in texture blend easily with contemporary, bohemian, rustic and minimalist styles.
Every mat is one-of-a-kind, reflecting the skill and cultural identity of the Hausa people.
CULTURAL NOTES
The Hausa are one of West Africa’s largest and most culturally influential groups, originating in the Sahel and savanna regions of northern Nigeria and southern Niger, with communities across West and Central Africa. Their leatherworking tradition is among the oldest in the region.
The leather used for these mats is prepared through a detailed, fully manual process. Skins are washed, soaked in a natural alkali solution called toka, unhaired by hand and neutralised with plant solutions such as koloko. They are softened using natural enzymes, washed and tanned with bagaruwa (acacia nilotica) pods, producing a durable and light-fast leather. After tanning, the hides are hand-oiled, air-dried slowly, stretched and softened before being cut, dyed and stitched into the final mat.
Each piece reflects the life of the material and the hands of the artisan who shaped it.
