Antique large Bengali Kantha featuring a repeat field of flowering vines and curving lines as a backdrop to a small off-center mandala and large-scale floral forms. The addition of a peacock and a Vimana or flying palace adds some serious interest. The large-scale floral forms almost feel like fireworks exploding in the sky. The whole composition is flanked by richly rendered paisley or

Antique Nakshi Kantha - 4'1 x 7'11

Regular price $1,750.00 Sale

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 repeat field of flowering vines and curving lines as a backdrop to a small off-center mandala and large-scale floral forms. The addition of a peacock and a Vimana or flying palace adds some serious interest. The large-scale floral forms almost feel like fireworks exploding in the sky. The whole composition is flanked by richly rendered 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. 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 small areas of wear.

 

Size: 4'1" x 7'11" [124cm x 241cm]

Age: Late 19th Century

Country of Origin: Undivided Bengal

Type of Textile: Nakshi Kantha

Material: Cotton

Condition: Very good, some small areas of wear

 

TX364

 

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