As described by Central Asian textile expert John Gillow in his reference book “World Textiles”, this is a rare and classic example of a balanced tabby-weave silk shawl from Turkmenistan. The vertical stripes that run down the entire length of one edge of the shawl are created by the colours of the warp threads, while the horizontal end bands are created by the colours of the weft weave. Where they cross, they form a chequered pattern.
Our Turkomen shawl is made from pure silk, terminating in fringed ends. Traditionally worn by women pinned over the top of a very high embroidered headdress, with ends trailing almost to the ground. This shawl is new, but was collected by my father in the 1990’s and to our knowledge has never been worn. We think that it may be an heirloom piece, woven some time in early to mid 20th century.
Note some small inconsistencies in the dye, but overall this shawl is in superb condition. And a very wearable scarf, particularly over black or white clothing for maximum impact.
Measurements: 373 x 82 cm, not including fringes.
Reference: World Textiles, A Visual Guide to Traditional Techniques. 1999. John Gillow and Brian Sentance. Bulfinch Press, Little, Brown & Co. Pge 70-71