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Cultural Context

utilitarian;household

Iconographic Meaning

The pomegranate symbolizes favourable influences, prosperity and the hope of a large family. The plum is an emblem of winter and long life. The peach is an emblem of marriage, immortality and spring. The phoenix is for peace and prosperity.

Description

Rectangular, brocade, valance of cream fabric and indigo detailing. The design consists of a geometric border on three sides with a wild plum motif. One edge is selvedge while the other three are hemmed. There are five gold rings sewn onto the selvedge edge. The central design consists of five medallions, two sets are mirror images. The first and the fifth have geometric designs in the centre surrounded by eight peaches and four peach trees growing from the centre of the design. The second and fourth medallions have central designs with four trees coming from it and eight designs of riding figure on a feline. The third medallion has a geometric centre design with four trees and eight pomegranates.

History Of Use

Blue and white embroideries are part of a long 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.