Nakshe

This nakshe work was made in Persia in the 19th century out of silk and cotton.

Nakshe means “embroidery” in Parsi. Nakshe work, originally from Isfahan, was done in squares that were used as legging material for women’s trousers. The design is always done in diagonal parallel bands filled with small flowers. The tight embroidery is done in counted stitch with thick coiled yarns, which makes these panels very sturdy and is why these nakshes became popular as covers, purses, pouches and other utilitarian articles. This nakshe is unusual for its cubist patterning within the bands.