Aug 11, 2010
Aug 11, 2010
Aug 11, 2010

Kerchief (Tensifa)

Kerchief (Tensifa)

1700–1899

Embroidery: silk, gold, and silver on linen

Overall: 241.9 x 39.4 cm (95 1/4 x 15 1/2 in.)

Gift of J. H. Wade 1916.1238

Location

Did you know?

This textile was exhibited in CMA's first-ever exhibition in 1916. While it is from North Africa, it was displayed in the "Nearer East" room.

Description

This beautiful kerchief, worn wrapped around the head, was part of elegant bathing equipment that well-to-do women wore while relaxing in a hammam after bathing. The floral and foliate embroidery reflect a fashion that lasted for more than a century. This example is dominated by lavish, radiating gold and silver thread.

See also
Collection: 
T - Islamic
Department: 
Textiles
Type of artwork: 
Embroidery
Credit line: 
Gift of J. H. Wade

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