Folk Art Textiles

Japanese Mingei (Folk Art) Gathering Basket This hand made gathering basket is from Northern Japan. It was most likely a gathering basket. However, it could be utilized in different applications. It closes by pulling-up on the straps, and the 30 one-inch (in diameter) metal rings closes it. The heavy straps on the backside run all through the bottom, and perhaps, it was a backpack, as the heavy straps were designed for field or farm work. It is a Folk Art item in very good condition considering its use and age. Applications and Uses: Wall Art When it was photographed, very interesting shadpws appeared The top 4 inches is an unusual design of open-work, different from the main body. Dried Materials Knitting Basket...

African Batik Cloth Natural Hand-woven Hand-Printed Cotton Fabric Ghana 10 yards. Colors are organic earth tone beige and light brown in geometric design. Non waxed fabric circa 1950s. Hand made in Ghana Africa. Museum Quality Original Long Piece. 380 inches, (30 ft 10 yards Long) x 46 inches Inches Wide( 4ft). Could be use to make pillows or upholstery. History of Batik in Africa: Batik, a traditional fabric art technique, has a rich history in Ghana, West Africa. The practice of batik involves using wax to create intricate patterns on fabric, which is then dyed to achieve the desired design. While batik has its origins in Asia, particularly in Indonesia, it has been embraced and adapted by various African countries, including Ghana. In Ghana, batik-making can be traced back to the mid-20th century when it gained popularity as a form of traditional textile art. The craft was introduced by artists and artisans who were inspired by the vibrant and expressive nature of batik. These early practitioners experimented with different designs, colors, and patterns, infusing local themes and motifs into their creations. Over time, batik became an important part of Ghanaian culture and identity. It is not only used for clothing but also for various decorative and functional items such as wall hangings, tablecloths, and accessories. The art form often reflects the rich cultural heritage of Ghana, incorporating symbols, proverbs, and traditional stories into the designs. Ghanaian batik artists often employ a combination of traditional and contemporary elements, creating a unique fusion of styles. The process of making batik involves applying hot wax to the fabric using various tools to create the desired patterns. The wax acts as a resist, preventing dye from penetrating the waxed areas. After dyeing, the wax is removed, revealing the intricate designs on the fabric. Today, batik-making in Ghana continues to thrive as both a traditional craft and a form of artistic expression. Many artisans and designers draw inspiration from Ghana's diverse cultural landscape, incorporating elements from different regions and ethnic groups into their batik creations. The art form has also gained international recognition, with Ghanaian batik products being sought after both locally and abroad. In summary, the history of batik in Ghana is a testament to the creativity and adaptability of artists who have embraced and transformed this traditional technique into a vibrant and culturally significant art form within the country. HISTORY OF BATIK In the mid-nineteenth century, the Belanda Hitam, or "Black Dutchmen," are said to have introduced batik to West Africa after serving as indentured soldiers for the Dutch in Indonesia. Returning from their conscriptions with trunks of fine Javanese batik, the opulent patterns captured the imagination of their friends and relatives. However, textile history is complex, and only a handful of recruits returned to West Africa with batik due to delayed payments. Batik, with roots traced to Egyptian mummies, is a tradition found globally, from Southeast Asia to Japan and India. Europeans, particularly the Dutch, played a significant role in industrializing batik from the seventeenth century onward. In West Africa, Dutch Scholar Ineke van Kessel suggests that batik arrived from India over trans-Saharan routes. Local populations, like the Yoruba in Nigeria, incorporated wax printing into their textiles. European traders brought wax and non-wax fabrics to West Africa in the seventeenth century, targeting a population ready for their consumption. European designers adapted prints for the African market...

A beautiful vintage Indian textile from Gujarat. India – Gujarat floss silk embroidery Chalka folk art textile, vintage wall hanging. Antique Banjara Embroidered Chaakla textile with Mirrors, Wall Hanging, India. Banjara tribal Chaakla textile wall decor, India. This handwoven base cloth is embellished with mirrors and hand embroidery work. Antique Textile Folk art. Great piece of textile for framing or hanging on the wall. This piece was made for personal use, and was well used. Embroidered ceremonial cloth, square hanging folk art...

Vintage Rajasthani Patchwork Tapestry, handcrafted, of several small irregular embroidered “patches” heavily embroidered with gold and silver paper-wrapped threads couched down in a multitude of colors, some with reflective mirror...

Large Vintage Pichhavai Painting of Krishna with Female Gopis Dancing. Colorful Pichhavai hand painted on cotton cloth, circa 1940, depicting a scene from the life of Krishna, in a garden setting. One of a kind Pichhavai painting of Krishna with female Gopis dancing, the composition is enclosed in a lush green forest and the colors of the dresses play off against the vegetative forms, adding a lively pattern to the whole composition green and black border with stylized floral motifs on a blue ground, border composed of meandering leafy vines and multicolored flowers. A Pichhavai painting depicting Krishna, represented in multiple places with female Gopis dancing and offering, great colors, the composition is enclosed in a lush green forest and the colors of the dresses in yellow and oranges play off against the vegetative forms, adding a lively pattern to the whole floral composition, with a colorful Gopis and worshipers. A beautiful antique early 20th century Pichhavai painting depicting Krishna represented in multiple places with Gopi dancing. This piece is all hand painted in pastel colors. It is believed that Krishna enchants the world, but Radha enchants even him. Therefore, she is the supreme goddess of all and together they are called as Radha-Krishna. Gouache on cloth. Rajasthan Jaipur, Indian, Himalayan and Southeast Asian Decorative Art. One of a kind hand-painted. Some damages on the corners. Not framed will be shipped rolled. Dimensions height: 47.25 in. width: 36.5 in. A Picchawai is a large-scale temple hanging made for temporary use in a Pushti Marg shrine. The Pushti Marg (Path of Grace) is a Hindu sect that focuses on the worship of Krishna. One of a kind large size painting on cloth depicting the story of Krishna from a young age. Hand Made painting on cloth.This is an exceptional example including quality of line and design. Not framed, will be shipped rolled. Hand painted in India Lord Krishna Beautiful Hand Painted Indian Traditional Religious pichwai with gopis .... "Maharaas" Maharas is one of the wonderful pastimes of Shri Krishna. It was conceived by the Gopis in Vrindavan in the month of Margashirsha. The gopis worshiped Goddess Katyayani continuously for one month on the sands of Yamuna in Vrindavan and chanted daily. Lord Krishna had to come because of his love and penance. Krishna created Maharas by holding different forms with each gopi there The A picchawai is a large-scale temple hanging made for temporary use in a Pushti Marg shrine. The Pushti Marg (Path of Grace) is a Hindu sect that focuses on the worship of Krishna. Pichhwai paintings...

20th century Uzbek cotton and silk ikat chapan robe Uzbekistan, 20th Century Height 122cm, width 153cm Historically, an ikat chapan robe was a status symbol worn by nomadic tribes and settles in Uzbekistan as well as other Central Asian regions. Paired with belt, tunic, and trousers, the brightness of colours and intricacy of the embroidery were indicators of the wealth of the wearer. The robe in Mayfair Gallery’s collection is brightly coloured with large, red and yellow geometrical patterns on a cream-coloured base. The inside of the robe is also patterned, with red floral motifs formed in a geometrical and symmetrical pattern. The outside trim of this silk and cotton ikat chapan robe is elegantly embroidered with white and red patterns. Such embroidery carried symbolic meaning, protecting the wearer from evil spirits. The long sleeves are a beautiful design feature, intending to cover the wearer’s hands and protect them from cold temperatures. Worn by both men and women, this eye-catching Uzbek robe...

Vintage 1950s Burmese Kalaga Tapestry pillow warrior and horses. Elaborately detailed vintage Burmese Kalaga tapestry made into a pillow cover...

Vintage cotton elephant, covered in Indian textiles, retailed in the 1950s by Harrods. Interior frame composed of wire and straw. Textiles originally s...

Vintage hand made Gujarat Saurashta Ethnic beadead textile India. Hand Beaded Guarat Indian panel textile framed in a lucite box. Amazing work of hand beading by Chakla Indian, Gujarat state, Saurashtra or Kutch region. Such a nice piece of visual interest, and a beautiful acquisition for any textile lover. Vintage Chakla hand-embroidered wall hanging, Rabari of Gujarat Beadwork, Patchwork. The method of work is a tri-bead system (tran moti-no thansiya), worked row-by-row, three beads being taken up at each stitch; on the return row, the stitching of the beads moves forward one position, so that as the work progresses row-by-row a close rhomboid network is formed.The beadwork is set into a frame of applique silk material Manufacturing Process: Handmade Materials: Cotton, silk. Period: Late 19th/ early 20th century. Most native beadwork...

Massive vintage cotton elephant, covered in Indian textiles, retailed in the 1950s by Harrods. Exterior decorated in embroidered designs, tassels, tiny mirrors...

Middle Eastern end of the bed quilted textile with appliqué, elegant Moorish design in black, deep red and beige. Ideal to use as a tablecloth on a centre or console table, on the ba...

Hand Drawn Indonesian Batik with Floral Design, Made in Indonesia, Full Batik Tulis Madura, Indonesian Batik Fabric. A beautiful, vintage hand made Batik ...

Asian Decorative Art Phad Painting Rajasthan Royal Procession. Add a festive touch with this superbly hand painted Phad painting of a Rajput Royal Pr...

Vintage Samarkand suzani, Uzbekistan Tashkent suzani from Samarkand Uzbekistan, 1950. Overall condition is pretty good for its age and use. "Suzani" means needlework and these embroideries are some of the most characteristic forms of textile art from Central Asia. The mastery of color and the dynamic sense of movement they convey continue to add depth and joy to contemporary interiors. A high level of creative variation and the individuation of each flower are what make each piece unique. Measures: 52" x 51. The Silk Road Bukhara: Like scattered pearls along the vast expanse of the Great Silk Road, the cities of Uzbekistan glisten radiantly under the unforgiving sun. This nation, nestled in a picturesque oasis, holds a treasure trove of historical artifacts, owing to its advantageous position at the heart of the ancient Silk Road network. In the year 138 BC, a transformative era commenced as China graciously opened its borders to trade, giving rise to caravans that embarked upon this illustrious route. These trading pathways served as conduits not only for the exchange of goods and craftsmanship but also for the intermingling of cultures, beliefs, and wisdom. Even today, within the ancient walls of cities like Samarkand, one can still discern the echoes of bustling voices, the melodious jingle of camel...

Moroccan Akhnif Berber hooded burnous cape in handwoven brown wool. Tribal traditional cape with hood handwoven in the High Atlas Mountains. Tribal design in the back, great shades of brown natural organic wool colors. The burnus (also called a selham) is long, hooded cloak...

This is a dazzling colorful large, 24 x 24 inch pillow or cushion cover ( or wall hanging) all hand-worked from fabric strips of vintage sari's and other coverings in the traditional...

Vintage Samarkand Suzani, Uzbekistan embroidered textile red and black Tashkent Suzani from Samarkand Uzbekistan, 1950. Overall good condition for its age and use some stains. "Suzani" means needlework and these embroideries are some of the most characteristic forms of textile art from Central Asia. The mastery of color and the dynamic sense of movement they convey continue to add depth and joy to contemporary interiors. A high level of creative variation and the individuation of each flower are what make each piece unique. Measures: 67.5" x 57". The Silk Road Bukhara: Like scattered pearls along the vast expanse of the Great Silk Road, the cities of Uzbekistan glisten radiantly under the unforgiving sun. This nation, nestled in a picturesque oasis, holds a treasure trove of historical artifacts, owing to its advantageous position at the heart of the ancient Silk Road network. In the year 138 BC, a transformative era commenced as China graciously opened its borders to trade, giving rise to caravans that embarked upon this illustrious route. These trading pathways served as conduits not only for the exchange of goods and craftsmanship but also for the intermingling of cultures, beliefs, and wisdom. Even today, within the ancient walls of cities like Samarkand, one can still discern the echoes of bustling voices, the melodious jingle of camel harnesses...

Festive and elegant Susani embroidery, suitable for bed or table or wall. Silk embroidery on a cotton ground. B/ 2003 - cm. 213x 177.   

Antique Moroccan leather slippers, known as babouches are handmade from leather dyed in red and green and embroidered in silk wool thread with ethnic floral design, hand-sewn sole. H...

Antique Asian Ottoman style vest in emerald green velvet decorated with elaborate gold thread, trimmed with gold metallic thread. Elegant vest handmade embroidery on green silk velve...

Antique Pair of Charogh Ethnic Shoes from Turkey. These collectible Museum Kurdish shoes are known as charoghs and were made in Khorasan province in north western Turkey. Hand-crafte...

B/1676. Old African textile from Kuba, Zaire: with small shells as ornament. An IDEA: use this item as backrest covering of a sofa !

A rare pattern embroidered in silk on a hand loomed cotton background. Punjab is known for its Phulkaris. The embroidery is done with floss silk thread on coarse handwoven cotton fab...

Nice Turkoman patchwork textile with light colors, suitable for tapestry, headboard, armchair upholstery. They are all embroideries applied on a rein...

B/1602/ 9-15-16-17. Set of four pillows made out of an ancient Turkish Kilim, with the natural wool colors. True nomadic taste, but with an impression ...

Handwoven Bogolan mud cloth textile from Mali, Africa, Bambara. It is a handwoven tribal cotton fabric traditionally dyed with fermented mud. Woven Afr...

B/874/1 - Vintage African Kuba textile, suitable for Wall hanging or table - An IDEA: use this item as backrest covering of a sofa !

nr. 114 /3 - 7 . Set of pillows made with a rare fragment of a Shahsavan Caucasian Kilim, not an usual kilim ! very interesting... In a modern home they give an impression of charac...

Elegant Turkish long vest brightly colored design of geometric patterns against a red ground. Part of Turkish folk ceremonial traditional costume. The designs on the open jacket ar...