The Mossi people are renowned for their fine cotton weaving, a craft they have been practicing for centuries. According to one Mossi creation myth, the first Mossi ancestor descended to earth on the threads of his loom. Weaving is traditionally done in rural Mossi villages during the dry season. First, the cotton is spun and dyed by the women of the village. Then, the men use a narrow loom to weave the cotton into long strips. Finally, the strips are sewn together to create the complete textile. Common designs are animal motifs or geometric motifs, such as the linear pattern exhibited on this pillow.