Mat Item Number: Ef203 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Rectangular grass mat of fine regular weave. In the centre of the mat is a natural-coloured rectangle. Within the rectangle are two green blocks with a peacock motif. Around the rectangle is a large border with green geometric, vine and floral motifs. The ends of the mat have striped bands. Long weaving threads are tied off at one end.
History Of Use
The antiquity of woven mats in India is supported by archaeological evidence and references in ancient texts. Mats are among the most important of household items in every strata of society. They are essential to most domestic activities and are used in sleeping, eating, sitting, and entertaining. The finest mats of West Bengal are woven of madur grass, grown and harvested by weavers of Hindu cultivator castes. This village-based industry is now assisted by the West Bengal Home Industry Board to establish cooperatives for mat transport and marketing. This mat was purchased from the weaver.
Cultural Context
floor covering
Iconographic Meaning
The peacock is a symbol of the monsoon, love, and Krishna.
Item History
- Made in Krishnapur, West Bengal, India before 1976
- Collected during 1976
- Owned by Stephen Inglis before December 2, 1977
- Received from Museum of Anthropology Donations Fund (Funding source) and Stephen Inglis (Seller) on December 2, 1977
What
Who
- Culture
- Bengali
- Previous Owner
- Stephen Inglis
- Received from
- Museum of Anthropology Donations Fund (Funding source) and Stephen Inglis (Seller)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Krishnapur, West Bengal, India
When
- Creation Date
- before 1976
- Collection Date
- during 1976
- Ownership Date
- before December 2, 1977
- Acquisition Date
- on December 2, 1977
Other
- Item Classes
- textiles; basketry
- Condition
- good
- Accession Number
- 0411/0085