pink, white, yellow, blue, purple, green ikat; warp twined trim around cuffs, front and bottom--purple and white; lined in various printed fabrics

Woman's robe (munisak), c. 1850-1875

Unknown artist, expand_more

Silk, cotton, velvet ikatexpand_more

Gift of Guido Goldmanexpand_more  2005.137.7

Not on Viewexpand_more

Of all the fabrics used to make the bold and dynamic resist-dyed ikat cloths of central Asia, the most admired and costly was velvet, which was used for wall hangings and household decorations as well as clothing. Costume in central Asia was a general indicator of social rank and geographic origin. A silk velvet ikat robe such as this one, with its dazzling, multicolored pattern and distinctive V-shaped neckline, would have been the most sumptuous garment in a wealthy bride’s trousseau. In many traditions, the munisak was first worn on her wedding day, draped over her head to serve as a veil; it thereafter would be worn on occasions that marked important rites of passage.

Details
Title
Woman's robe (munisak)
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2005.137.7
Curator Approved

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pink, white, yellow, blue, purple, green ikat; warp twined trim around cuffs, front and bottom--purple and white; lined in various printed fabrics