Indian Shawl Embroidered By The Kashmiri People, Known As A "rumal"—made In India For Export To France, Circa 1880

Circa 1880
India, for export

Spectacular Kashmiri shawl, or kani shawl, it is embroidered in tapestry stitch and made on the borders of Tibet, dating from the last quarter of the 19th century.  Also known as a “Rumal” in India, due to its square shape, it is produced by Kashmiri artisans exclusively for export to France and is composed of several sewn-together pieces. These dense, very colorful shawls were part of traditional French regional attire and bridal trousseaus, particularly in Provence. The large central panel, featuring a black-and-turquoise star motif with white highlights, bears the embroidered signature of the Indian artisan. The design consists of a quarter of the shawl featuring long, curling palm leaves and languid boteh motifs, foreshadowing the Art Nouveau style in France. Rich embroidered and fringed borders on all four sides. No moth holes, no defects. Exceptional condition in terms of color and preservation.

Dimensions: 172 cm x 172 cm