This elongated brocaded panel reflects the celebrated weaving traditions of Samugheo, the Sardinian village renowned for its mastery of pibiones “grain” weave and richly patterned household textiles. The central field displays repeated diamonds enclosing stylized stars, while the end skirts feature rare anthropomorphic figures that read either as a man and woman in union or dancers repeated in procession-like rhythm. Their presence evokes fertility, marriage, and communal celebration, suggesting the textile may have served as a dowry piece.
Traces of the original yellow silk edge binding remain, while talismanic tufts of colored and metallic-thread yarns were added near the borders. These irregular insertions, likely intended as protective charms, reveal the textile’s layered biography as both a decorative object and a bearer of apotropaic power within Sardinian folk belief.
Both technically accomplished and symbolically rich, this panel exemplifies the artistry of Sardinian weaving and the deep interplay between craftsmanship, ritual, and daily life.
Very good condition for its significant age. Linen with wool supplementary-weft brocade and pibiones (“grain” weave), traces of yellow silk edging, later wool and metallic-thread additions.
Size: 1'7" x 8'9" [48cm x 267cm]
Age: 19th Century
Type: Brocaded Panel
Origin: Samugheo, Sardinia, Italy
Material: Wool on Linen, moments of silk and metal wrapped thread
Condition: Very good with some areas of color run
TX596
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