Item Records

This page shows all the information we have about this item. Both the institution that physically holds this item, and RRN members have contributed the knowledge on this page. You’re looking at the item record provided by the holding institution. If you scroll further down the page, you’ll see the information from RRN members, and can share your own knowledge too.

The RRN processes the information it receives from each institution to make it more readable and easier to search. If you’re doing in-depth research on this item, be sure to take a look at the Data Source tab to see the information exactly as it was provided by the institution.

These records are easy to share because each has a unique web address. You can copy and paste the location from your browser’s address bar into an email, word document, or chat message to share this item with others.

  • Data
  • Data Source

This information was automatically generated from data provided by MOA: University of British Columbia. It has been standardized to aid in finding and grouping information within the RRN. Accuracy and meaning should be verified from the Data Source tab.

Description

A flat, embroidered seat cover. It appears to be shaped to fit a large bicycle seat. It is constructed from blue cotton textile (that has faded to a blue gray colour on the front side of the object), which is profusely embroidered in chain stitch with bright orange and mustard yellow silk or rayon floss, using a meandering pattern, along with paisley motifs and designs that perhaps represent peacocks. A small hooked sun disc motif, enclosed in a circle, appears in the centre, and along the perimeter of the design field are several small discs made from yellow, green and white glass beads. Some gold metallic braid is incorporated into the design. The embroidered textile is edged with a dense fringe made from twisted dark red fibre (faded) and white glass beads, and a ruffle made from dark green synthetic knitted textile. The embroidery is backed with red cotton textile.

History Of Use

Part of a strap made from red cotton textile, located on the back of the seat, was probably used for attaching the cover to the bicycle seat.

Specific Techniques

chain stitch

Iconographic Meaning

The sun disc in the centre could indicate that the maker wanted to incorporate an element from the natural environment that represents life-giving forces. Meandering lines of the designs are thought to entangle evil spirits and protect the user from harm. Beaded discs are emblems of good fortune. The embroidered designs are typical of Pashtun style.

Item History

With an account, you can ask other users a question about this item. Request an Account

With an account, you can submit information about this item and have it visible to all users and institutions on the RRN. Request an Account

Similar Items