Head Cloth Item Number: 2615/16 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Head cloth made of translucent orange synthetic material with embroidered flowers lining the two longest sides and scalloped edging lining the two shortest sides. Tiny groupings of an embroidered three teardrop design appear evenly across the head cloth.

History Of Use

Head cloths of this type were worn by women of the Muslim Macchiyara caste, harmonizing with their dresses and the pants worn underneath. Members of that caste assisted in the production and gathering of this clothing. The cloth for the Macchiyara woman`s clothing was purchased in Dhamlej.

Iconographic Meaning

The type of clothing helps to communicate the caste of the wearer.

Narrative

This head cloth was collected with the help of Muslim Macchiyara people. This collection was gathered with the enthusiastic participation of villagers in Dhamlej, reflecting Derek Johnson’s rapport with them. They allowed him to take photographs of them demonstrating how the clothing is put on and worn. These photographs are available in the Museum of Anthropology collection documentation file for accession 2615.

Specific Techniques

Cut and machine-sewn by a tailor.

Cultural Context

daily use