Gujarat Skirt Fragment

The very precise and uniformed embroidery is the trademark of the Mochis, a caste of originally leather makers spread across Gujarat, mainly in the Kutch region. Their work was of such high quality that it was commissioned for the Mughal court and for the European market. Some work was done for domestic demand including this type of skirt, worn with an embroidered choli.

The red ground is decorated with polychromatic floral designs. They are created using detached interlacing embroidery, which gives the appearance of lace floating on the ground. Between the main field and borders there are birds, assorted animals, and figures. Geometric floral borders surround the piece on three sides.