Small Size Antique Indian Paisley Shawl 49781
Breathtaking Extremely Refined Small Size Antique Indian Paisley Shawl, Country of Origin / Rug Type: India Rug, Circa Date: 1900 – This antique Indian shawl with a paisley design border will make anyone feel special. This elegant piece of Oriental history could serve as a beautiful finish to the perfect outfit, or as an excellent addition to a vintage room’s decor.
The design of this fine antique Indian Paisley shawl is based on a plain field with an extremely fine and intricately designed paisley border. This boteh or paisley design symbol is found throughout Asian art and would eventually become known as the paisley.
You may notice that all of the paisleys in this design face the same direction going clockwise, with the exception of five, which face the other direction. One can only guess why the weaver of this antique textile chose to reverse these design elements. This adds a bit of mystery, the answer to which time has erased.
The Indian weaver’s choice of a simple neutral cream color palette highlights the fine detail of the design. While the the main border design is basically just blue and white, this wider border is then encircled by a thin delicate border of grey blue, rusty rends and earth tones.
This antique Indian paisley shawl must be examined up close to be truly appreciated. From a distance, the shawl appears to have white paisleys against a solid blue background. But if you look closely, you will see that the blue is not the background but is actually a highly detailed array of leaves and flowers that are set against an ivory or white background.
A delicate flower inner border separates the border from the ground. If you look closely at the ground, you will find that it is not completely uniform, with slightly larger strands of thread interspersed to add interest to this element as well.
The detail and work in this antique Indian paisley shawl is truly magnificent and speaks to the talent of the weaver. Whether you decide to use it as a fashion garment accessory, or display it as a decorative element, this shawl is something to be admired for years to come.
