Skirt Item Number: 1559/3 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Woman's multi-coloured, embroidere, appliquéd. very full skirt with a wide (16.5 cm) waistband or hip band. The waistband or hip band is embroidered with three rows of large round mirrors and multi-coloured embroidery on red fabric. The top edge is finished with rows of coloured cotton bindings. The full skirt is finely pleated onto the bacnd and is constructed in six horizontal tiers. The tiers are embellished with embroidered geometric motifs and a few mirrors. ALong the front, where tha skirt joins the band, there is a row of small bead-trimmed pompoms, resembling bal buttons. The opening is at the centre back; there are long braided cotton cords (about 97 cm long) at the top corners. Two brass bells are sewn at the hem in the back.

History Of Use

Likely never worn.

Narrative

Purchased on the street in Gujarat.

Cultural Context

Probably intended to be worn as everyday attire in the past, but now worn for festive occasions.