An Intricately Tie-Dyed Rajasthani Turban: Gossamer Weight Cotton Gauze

mid twentieth century
approximately 15 yards x 7", approximately 14 meters x 17.75 cm

This is a magnificent, shape resist dyed turban from Rajasthan, India which is made from light weight cotton, almost a gossamer weight: 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. 

As can be seen on the accompanying detail photos this turban has been worn and the condition reflects that.

Please note: there are holes to the super finely woven cotton and the selvedge edges are very slightly ragged, not so unusual knowing this delicate cloth was wound into an elaborately shaped head covering. Nonetheless if you are to acquire this you will be owning something with a good deal of wear and some damage.

Still this is a remarkable piece to study or to display.

Recommended.