Cover Item Number: Edz1301 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Rectangular, brocade textile of cream fabric and indigo detailing. The design consists of a centre medallion with two birds, tree, leaves and floral motifs. Thirty- four butterflies arranged between medallion and border. The border consists of bird and floral designs. Four, cotton ties are attached to selvage edges. Hemmed at each end.

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