Delhi Shawl on Netting

Delhi shawls were originally sashes for men, but became enormously popular in Europe in the 1850s as accessories for women. Some were embroidered on linen or wool, and this one is embroidered on multi-colored netting. The full piece is seven sections sewn together on blue, black, and brown ground. Three embroidered squares line the top and bottom edges, and the center is one long piece with an almost bare center. The Kashmir-inspired botehs and florals motifs are executed in an off-white floss silk in satin stitch.