Sindhi Abochhini Bridal Shawl

Description

19th-Century Sindhi Abochhini Bridal Shawl

A fine and exceptionally large Abochhini (Abochani) bridal shawl, originating from Sindh, and dating to the late 19th century, circa 1875–1900.

The shawl made from an extremely fine, lightweight natural cotton ground, richly hand-embroidered with crimson silk. Small circular pieces of shisha mirror glass are carefully incorporated into the centres of several floral medallions.

Its striking composition is arranged around a large central floral rosette, from which eight embroidered branches radiate across the field toward smaller medallions and the surrounding decorative borders. The wide borders are filled with stylized flowering plants and finely worked floral motifs.

Particularly notable is the remarkably neat execution of the embroidery on both sides of the textile. The reverse reproduces much of the beauty and clarity of the front, demonstrating the high level of skill involved in its manufacture.

The fine cotton ground, silk embroidery, shisha mirror-work, large dimensions and distinctive decorative arrangement are characteristic of the historic Abochhini wedding shawls of Sindh, traditionally associated with bridal and ceremonial dress.

Origin: Sindh, probably Tharparkar, present-day Pakistan
Date: Late 19th century, circa 1875–1900
Material: Fine cotton, silk embroidery and shisha mirror glass
Dimensions: 220 × 140 cm