Cover Item Number: 1159/1 from the MOA: University of British Columbia

Description

Small, square cover made of lightweight, off-white cotton muslin, embroidered in muted colours with multicoloured figures and plant motifs; reversible. There is a round medallion in the centre, with a figure of the god Krishna seated, encircled by dancing or standing figures, linked hand-to-hand. The corners of the square are decorated with stylized trees, and there is a border of floral and bird motifs on all four sides. All figures, flowers, etc. are outlined in black.

History Of Use

Used as a covering for gifts or offerings, when an offering is made to temple gods, or when gifts are exchanged between the families of a bride and groom; or used as a backdrop for, or canopy for, a representation of a deity at a family shrine or in a temple.

Cultural Context

religious; ceremonial

Narrative

Purchased by Milton and Beverly Israel in Kutch, Jaipur or Delhi.

Specific Techniques

double darning stitch; double running stitch

Iconographic Meaning

Designs on rumals frequently feature events and episodes in the life of Krishna. The designs metaphorically depict the theme of love and devotion shown by women to the male god Krishna, which is analogous to the worshipful attitude of the devotee to the sacred god.

Item History

What

Name
Cover
Identification Number
1159/1
Type of Item
cover
Material
cotton fibre, silk fibre and dye
Manufacturing Technique
embroidered and sewn
Overall
height 64.9 cm, width 64.9 cm

Who

Culture
North India
Previous Owner
Milton Israel and Beverly Israel
Received from
Milton Israel (Donor) and Beverly Israel (Donor)

Where

Holding Institution
MOA: University of British Columbia
Made in
Himachal Pradesh, India

When

Creation Date
before 1900
Ownership Date
before November 17, 1986
Acquisition Date
on November 17, 1986

Other

Item Classes
textiles
Condition
good
Current Location
Case 103
Accession Number
1159/0001