Purple velvet coat with gold cord buttons and gold trim; gold cord in scrolling designs at center, hem and front and back of sleeves; lined with pink and white

Caftan, early 20th century

Unknown artist, expand_more
Not on Viewexpand_more

Moroccan textiles and garments represent layers of aesthetic influences over the centuries, including Islamic, Jewish, Spanish, French, and Turkish. The elaborate gold cording and embroidery on this purple velvet caftan recall the influence of the Ottoman Empire in North Africa.

Many specialists were involved in the making of this kind of luxury garment, worn at a formal court appearance or an elaborate social party - a designer for the decorative motifs, a maker of gold thread, an embroiderer, a craftsman for the metal buttons, and a tailor who would assemble the completed garment.

Details
Title
Caftan
Role
Artist
Accession Number
99.80.1
Curator Approved

This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.

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Purple velvet coat with gold cord buttons and gold trim; gold cord in scrolling designs at center, hem and front and back of sleeves; lined with pink and white