Indian Spoliated Cashmere Shawl With Green Reserve - Sick Period, Circa 1840

Circa 1840, India, for the European market. Large Indian cashmere shawl dating from the 1840s. Reserve decoration in green and yellow pashmina made from Tibetan goat down. Eight-color polychrome weave in a very fine tapestry stitch. Palmette, boteh, and interlacing designs in superimposed illuminations create a multi-dimensional architectural effect. Embroidered signature of the Indian artisan in white within the reserve. The shawl is complete with its original harlequin borders and fringes. Woven in one piece, including borders and fringes (not a patchwork shawl). This shawl is particularly soft and supple, among the finest productions of the Sick period in India. There are a few tiny moth holes (averaging 1 to 2 mm) and two discreet stains in the green reserve. Overall, it is in good condition and its structure is sound due to the spoliated weave. Exceptionally vibrant and fresh colours. Dimensions: approximately 142 cm wide x 312 cm long.