Face Cover Item Number: 3553/1 a-b from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Rectangular fabric face covering, with coins and beadwork across surface (part a). Covering has a plain red centre and is bordered by alternating white cotton braids and silver beads; triangular charms stitched along top edge of red centre. Two eye holes cut out above rectangle; fabric ridge sewn down middle of covering, imitating a nose. Ridge has coins attached along the top edge, and plastic beads and buttons along the sides. Two thin, pink embroidered bands attached to sides of covering, with strands of metal beads hanging from the bottom edges; red and green tassels throughout beads. Embroidered bands have columns of orange, green, and yellow diamonds along them. Additional coin and bead decorations along bottom edge of face covering. Back is lined with floral fabric and has a leather tie on the left side (lower half- part b); two fabric loops in each corner along top edge.
The donor's parents lived in Saudi Arabia from 1982-1992, while her father was working there. The items (3553/1-4) are thought to have been purchased at one of the local markets, possibly in the old town of Yanbu, as they were living in the new town of Yanbu at the time; or possibly in Riyadh. One of the coins on the face covering is an English Edward VII coronation coin, from 1902.