This Nakshi Kantha was crafted in Bengal during the late 19th century.
Kantha is a Bengali folk tradition of embroidering textiles using recycled cloth. This Kantha features a central floral sun-like mandala flanked by paisley or "Kalka" forms in each cornice. It has a limited palette of various red and black threads on a plain white cotton ground which is subtle but intriguing. Fine stitching and whimsical movement play well with the large scale and use of negative space. Perfectly framed by thin pinwheel and arrowhead borders. The saturation of the border threads in combination with that of the focal point and Kalka outlining provide the piece with great depth. The red and black threads were likely harvested and reused from old clothing. A wonderful example of classic Kantha from the 19th Century.
In very good condition with some light discoloration.
Size: 4'5" x 5'8" [135cm x 173cm]
Age: Late 19th Century
Country of Origin: Undivided Bengal
Type of Textile: Nakshi Kantha
Material: Cotton
Condition: Very good, some areas of light discoloration
TX363
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