Manjak Handwoven Shawl | Bleenj Cloth| Charcoal and Lime | Ayo & Aye

Known widely as Manjak cloth and also called bleenj, this handwoven textile is prized for its intricate patterns, rich texture, and the glimmer of gold lamé thread woven through the cloth. The weaving tradition is closely associated with Manjak artisans of Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, and The Gambia, and is practiced by weavers from other communities today.

A legend about the beginnings of this weaving tradition tells of a spirit who taught the craft to a man from Kalëkis, a village in the Cacheu region of Guinea-Bissau. Woven cloth has long been given to celebrate weddings and births, and used to wrap and carry babies.

Wear it three ways:

As a shawl over the shoulders for effortless elegance
As a stole for a refined evening look
As a one-shoulder wrap for a contemporary silhouette

Approximate measurements: 60.5 × 22 in
Material: Cotton blend with gold lamé thread woven into the cloth
Care: Dry clean recommended

Please note: Slight variations from the photos are natural in handwoven cloth and do not materially affect the shawl’s appearance or quality.