Textiles and Stuff

Description

This is an interesting example of an antique traditional Central Asian Uzbek banner in very fine cross stitch in silk, usually called Lakai embroidery. These were sometimes used to cover bread baskets, or in this case as a small wall banner. It is surrounded with I think silk fringing of several colours with a substantial tassel on each bottom corner. The design is mainly geometric, with several sets of curled rams’ horns, which in this culture are symbols of power. The colours are predominantly maroon and old gold. The tassels have a decorative knot and are hung on a cord which has been bound stiffly with cords of several colours.

The banner is lined on the back with dark red cotton fabric with black binding and there is a slot for the bamboo stick from which it hangs.

The banner measures 74 x 39 cms. (29 x 15.5 inches) including the fringing.

There is some damage to the fringe at the bottom edge, where a small portion is missing. There are also some areas of fading, particularly in the second and third triangles from the top on the right. The lining shows signs of wear and fraying at the bottom.

This is an unusual item of very fine ethnic needlework and a welcome addition to a collection


Postage for this item is free within the United Kingdom. This is by signed for delivery and includes insurance. INTERNATIONAL BUYERS PLEASE CONTACT US FOR OVERSEAS POSTAL CHARGES BEFORE PAYING FOR THIS ITEM.