18th-19th century
This lightweight shawl was woven from extremely fine wool. In the region of Kashmir, wool was traditionally taken from the soft under-hair of the Himalayan goat. The main pattern of this shawl features rows of flowers, tilted as though swaying in the wind. The repetition of these finely rendered motifs, the delicacy of its materials, and the translucency of the cream background create a light-weight, luxurious garment.
117.4 x 67.6 cm (46 1/4 x 26 5/8 in.)
Book of swatches mounted on paper (56 sheets)
19th-20th centuryJapaneseFiber
ItalianVelvet
ItalianRed wool ground with blue wool borders, the appliqué decoration in fabrics of varied color stitched in place, the tassels sewn along the lower edge of the bottom border, the banner backed with medium-blue cotton cloth
19th centuryTibetanWool, tapestry woven
8th centuryCopticTextile fibers
20th centuryAmericanWool
EgyptianFiber
JapaneseTextile fibers
16th centuryFlemish?Fiber
SpanishSilk and metallic yarns (or nué) on cut velvet
16th-17th centuryItalian