Cover

Item number 1159/1 from the MOA: University of British Columbia.

Public

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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

Made in Himachal Pradesh, India before 1900
Owned by Milton Israel and Beverly Israel before November 17, 1986
Received from Milton Israel (Donor) and Beverly Israel (Donor) on November 17, 1986