Swazi design

The current king, Mswati III, 40, has ruled Swaziland since 1986. His father, King Sobhuza II, ruled for nearly 83 years. King Sobhuza's reign was the longest on record in modern history. He believed deeply in maintaining what, in his view, was the essence of Swazi culture, including polygamy.
According to the Swaziland National Trust Commission, King Sobhuza II "married 70 wives and had 210 children between 1920 and 1970."
He is survived by nearly 100 children and 1,000 grandchildren, all considered part of the royal family. He also believed an absolute monarchy was central to Swaziland culture. After independence from Britain in 1968, Swaziland was initially set up as a constitutional monarchy. There would be a king, but also a constitution and a parliament.
Within five years, however, King Sobhuza had dissolved the parliament and repealed the constitution.
He made all decisions regarding the country's economy, justice system, education. He regarded political parties, voting, and government checks and balances as "alien" to the traditions of Swaziland.
His son, King Mswati, is reportedly taking after his father in many respects. Though he re-established a constitution nearly three years ago and allowed Swazis to vote in a parliament for the first time in more than 30 years last September, democracy experts say Swaziland hasn't changed much.
abcnews.go.com/International/AroundTheWorld/story?id=6480460 2009

Another part of the design...

A pleasure to see this, the colors and design are so sharp and clear. Lovely presentation.

Eine tolle Idee und ein super Foto!

I know that design well, I was there in 1986 when Mswati III came to the throne - he was a pleasant young kid at the time, unfortunately, he has not gained the wisdom of his ancestors, and is now very similar to your typical African tinpot dictator - not a very nice man at all - Swaziland, on the other hand, remains a beautiful little country to visit!

Gorgeous and colorful.

Very beautiful Gillian. I really like both of your photos.

this is much more than fabric, it's a whole story. Interesting!

Both photos are beautiful! Very good idea and many thanks for the interesting information!

Brilliant shot and clarity and great information

I love the bright colors.

Great colours and composition on the shot Gillian ... I especially like the close-up! :)

mmm, bright and bold, and interesting crop

Fantastic colourful pattern against the black. Very nice shots, both of them.

...beautiful and colorful!

Back for a second look ... :)

Wonderful color and composition! Love it!

Very beautiful work.

Thanks everyone, for your kind comments and interest :-)

Wow, what a beautiful pattern, well captured image, Gillian. And thanks for the very interesting history of Swaziland!

Looking good this afternoon on Explore! :)

very nice patterns