Coat c. 19th century

This exquisite coat features an "ikat" pattern, a resist-dyeing technique where threads are bundled and dyed before weaving, common across cultures from South America to Asia. The vibrant red motifs evoke primal life forces. Observe how these organic shapes bear a striking resemblance to stylized "boteh," the paisley patterns found in Persian and Indian textiles. These abstract teardrops have been interpreted as symbols of fertility, growth, or even the seed of life itself, recurring through history and across geographies. Consider how such motifs persist in modern fashion, often detached from their original symbolic context, yet still subconsciously resonating with viewers, echoing ancient longings for prosperity and renewal. The human psyche engages with these symbols on a deep level, a testament to our collective cultural memory. This interplay between past and present, tradition and innovation, embodies the enduring power of visual symbols.