This is a presentation of a collector's personal treasures of silk and cotton purses, caps and robes from nineteenth century Lebanon and Aleppo.
The small purses are tapestries, cotton warp, silk weft, with slits in the designs. I've seen slits in the Unicorn tapestries, also part of the design.
The tapestries, like earlier European ones are woven vertically but with the design arranged horizontally. This enables some effects such as curves, to avoid steps showing in the image.
Purses shown here in use by men and women from both major religious communities.
The purse shape is used for slippers and caps, too, ingenious making
Here's how the weaving is oriented in relation to the design
Resistance work! Textiles have always been in the resistance movements.
Here's a shopping street and an interior showing artisan made goods
I think the stringed instrument is an oudh, open to correction on that
men were typically the weavers, while women, as you saw earlier, processed the silk fibers
These three images are just right if you sew and want to make a cloak. I included them in case you fancy trying your hand.
Closeup showing tapestry with slit design features
This was a nice presentation. The speaker pointed out that right now much of this area is a war zone, so we don't know if artisans are still able to function, but we hope.
Happy day, everyone, and I hope this little interlude with beautiful textiles was a respite from the stress of the day.
The map of the Ottoman Empire is interesting. I need to investigate further.
ReplyDeleteIt's a complicated part of the world, borders changing a lot with political movement.
DeleteSo much stunning work. A nice momentary escape from reality.
ReplyDeleteArt is also reality. But I hear what you're saying.
DeleteIntricate and beautiful!
ReplyDeleteLovely shoes! Purses! No wonder everyone wanted them.
DeleteThe robes carry the artistry in every fibre. Gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteDoesn't it make you want to make one? It does me. A summer bathrobe..
DeleteSuch intricate designs in these pieces. I'd think there are still artisans at work, despite being in a war zone. They would need the escapism from their surroundings.
ReplyDeleteIt's their living, though, and whether they can get supplies when they're being bombed is the thing. I'm hoping so.
DeletePurses, hats, and shoes. Now we're talking. How lovely!
ReplyDeleteThey had me at purses!
DeleteWow, such gorgeous designs. Loved all the color. Very interesting post.
ReplyDeleteSandy's Space
I could really use a lot of these!
DeleteBeautiful textiles and weaving! I love the red Abaya. I'd wear that!
ReplyDeleteYou'd look great, too!
DeletePurses and caps - beautiful and functional, both aspects essential.
ReplyDeleteYes, these are very appealing.
DeleteIntricate and lovely. Thanks for the tour.
ReplyDeleteYou're welcome! It's good to see beauty coming out of a region that's been racked with strife for centuries.
DeleteI did some cross stitch today but these are all so much more beautiful than anything I can create!
ReplyDeleteIt was truly a respite! Such talented artists. I am always in awe of the creativity of human beings. Thanks! :)
ReplyDeleteAren't they so beautiful and intricate!
ReplyDelete