Cover Item Number: Edz1236 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

White cover with dark blue embroidery. Four longitudinal pieces are stitched together to create the large rectangular panel. The two centre pieces have a large scene with rocks, branches and two pomegranates, surrounded by bird, butterfly and bat motifs. The side pieces have large basket and vase motifs and a border with animals, boats, bridges, figures and floral designs. The panel has hemmed ends and selvage sides. The back is unlined.

History Of Use

Blue and white embroideries are part of an ancient domestic tradition. Designs vary geographically but are constant within generations of families except for minor individual variations. Often used to decorate the bed which traditionally played a focal part in household ritual particularly at the new year when all household spirits were honored. They are family made, by women, and family owned. These embroideries were of no local commercial value.

Cultural Context

utilitarian;household