A Beautifully Shape Resist Dyed Rajasthani Turban: Complex Embedded Pattern

$295.00 USD

mid twentieth century
approximately 15 yards x 6 1/4", approximately 14 meters x 16 cm

This is a magnificent, shape resist dyed turban from Rajasthan, India which is made from light weight, gauzy cotton: the cloth is finely woven and is translucent--just marvelous.

The dyeing, too, is marvelous: this length of cloth was expertly dyed by pleating the cloth in two directions, and then binding it,  in order to achieve the crisscross design that is so delicate and so masterfully rendered, as the many accompany photos testify.

This cross-directional dyeing technique is called mothara. The coloration of this turban is a subtle, elegant and beautiful combination of orange, grey and fuchsia tones. 

As can be seen on the accompanying detail photos this turban has been lightly worn and the good condition and the still-vibrant colors reflect that.

This turban was said to have been worn on the celebration of raksha bandhan.

A remarkable piece to study or to display.

Recommended.

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