A Delightful Cotton Indian Bag: Tiny Cowrie Shells

ca. mid twentieth century
14" x 8", 35.5 cm x 20 cm

This really lovely, brightly colored and beautifully embroidered cotton bag was said to have belonged to a fakir, or mendicant, from the princely state of Rajasthan, India.

The bag is constructed in stitched-together pieces, the bottom area of yellow cotton being elaborately embroidered by hand.  Notice, too, that suspended between the two tassels, one at each bottom corner of the bag, is a line of very tiny cowrie shells that are strung together by multi-colored cord. A delicate and lovely detail.

For the most part the bag is hand stitched, however there seems to be a row of machine stitching at the topmost hem, on the strip of black cloth that finishes the top of the bag.

The braided cotton strap is a recent addition and can be easily removed or repositioned, if need be.

In used but good condition, this is a really attractive little bag with a curious provenance.