Pouch Item Number: Ef259 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Flat, two pocket pouch faced with black hand-woven cotton decorated in embroidery and mirror work. Green, yellow, purple, brown and pink cotton thread. Mirror pieces (9 of 1 cm. diameter, 4 of 2 cm.) sewn with buttonhole stitches. Metallic thread holds largest piece. Zippered closing. Double fabric backing and inside sleeve of black mill cloth. Tubular black braided cord arm strap attached to side seams as decorative binding.

History Of Use

In northwestern India, fancy embroidery, especially that which includes small mirrors is a popular decorative aspect of pouches, purses, bags, clothing, and furnishings. In this object, an older piece of northwestern Indian embroidery has been adapted to a tourist item for sale in handicraft shops or, as in this case, by Rajasthani women on the street, especially in front of American Express offices. This is an example of the way in which traditional skills are quickly adapted to contemporary needs or purposes. This pouch is used to hold a passport.

Cultural Context

tourism

Item History

What

Name
Pouch
Identification Number
Ef259
Type of Item
pouch
Material
mica mineral ?, metal, cotton fibre and dye
Manufacturing Technique
embroidered, sewn, woven and machine stitched
Overall
height 47.6 cm, width 14.6 cm

Who

Culture
North India
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
Delhi, India

When

Creation Date
before 1977
Collection Date
during 1977
Ownership Date
before December 2, 1977
Acquisition Date
on December 2, 1977

Other

Item Classes
textiles
Condition
good
Accession Number
0411/0158