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Spectacular rare antique Kohistani wedding shawl or ceremonial tribaltextile from Central Asia, richly hand embroidered with extraordinary geometricmotifs, beadwork, sequins, and dangling metal ornaments. This museum-qualitytextile is a remarkable example of traditional tribal artistry and would makean exceptional wall hanging, collector’s piece, or dramatic interior designstatement.
The textile is constructed in two layers andmeasures an impressive 76 inches wide by 68 inches long. The black cottonground is densely embroidered in vivid silk floss threads in crimson, magenta,saffron, purple, white, and celadon green. The composition is filled withtraditional protective and symbolic tribal motifs executed in meticulous handstitching.
One of the most striking features is theelaborate embellishment:
- 120 individually attached dangling metal ornaments
- approximately 780 individually hand-formed beaded tassels
- rows of delicate bead fringe
- gold sequins and mirrored accents throughout
The textile produces a wonderful soft tinklingsound when moved from the suspended metal ornaments, adding another layer ofceremonial presence and authenticity.
The craftsmanship is extraordinary, withimmense hand labor evident throughout the piece. The embroidery isexceptionally dense and precise, with highly detailed geometric patterningtypical of Kohistani and neighboring tribal wedding textiles from the Pakistan/Afghanistanregion.
This textile was likely created for ceremonialwedding or dowry use and was intended to display wealth, artistry, and tribalidentity.
Condition:
Very good antique condition with age-appropriate wear consistent with authentictribal ceremonial textiles. Some oxidation and patina to metal ornaments,occasional minor loose threads or beads, and minor irregularities from handmadeconstruction. Colors remain vibrant and presentation is spectacular.
Measurements:
76 inches wide
68 inches long
A truly rare and visually breathtaking textilesuitable for collectors of:
- Central Asian textiles
- tribal embroidery
- ethnographic art
- bohemian interiors
- folk art
- ceremonial textiles
- museum-quality handmade textiles
