Mosquito net (Arkila kerka), 20th century, 61 x 158 in. (154.9 x 401.3 cm), Cotton, wool; supplementary weft patterning, Mali, 20th century, For the Fulani of the Guimbau region of Mali, blankets are essential parts of a bride's trousseau. The bride's father commissions the creation of five blankets, the wedding blanket or arkila kerka, meaning mosquito net, being the largest and most important. During the winter months of November to January, Fulani cattle herders need protection from the cold, as well as from mosquitoes; these blankets are produced to meet this need. In addition, the blankets can serve as room-dividers.