Mirrorwork textile
Name/Title
Mirrorwork textileEntry/Object ID
2025.10.39Description
Small embroidered panel with three rows of five mirrors. Three attached knotted cords, possibly for hanging.Textile Type
Embroidered PanelUse
May have been a part of the head ring flap on a Banjara headdress.Context
A nomadic lifestyle is central to the identity of the Banjara people. For centuries, the Banjaras traveled in caravans, transporting goods across northern India. Fetching water is an important aspect of many Banjara women’s lives, and a headdress was developed to make this work as easy as possible, as well as being highly decorative. The headdress consists of four elements, namely (a) a garna (cloth) that covers the mouth of the water jug or pot being carried; (b) a gala (head ring) upon which the pot is supported; (c) a gaadi (small square cloth) that goes over the head; and (d) a pulia (large rectangular cloth) that hangs over the head ring and goes down the back. The garna, gaadi, and pulia are often decorated with embroidery, patchwork, and mirrorwork.Category
Embroidery
Acquisition
Accession
2025.10Made/Created
Time Period
20th CenturyPlace
Country
IndiaContinent
AsiaEthnography
Cultural Region
Country
IndiaContinent
AsiaCulture/Tribe
Banjara