Bedrukte zijden tulband van Perzisch maskeradekostuum 1913

This printed silk turban, part of a Persian masquerade costume by Anna van der Horst, presents a fascinating array of symbolic elements. The crescent motifs scattered across the fabric evoke celestial symbolism, reminiscent of ancient lunar deities and the cyclical nature of time. These crescents, paired with the turban's adornment of what appear to be gemstones, link back to the opulent headwear of ancient Persia and the Near East, where headwear signaled status and affiliation. The use of specific gemstones may hint at a belief in their protective or talismanic properties, a tradition that resurfaces throughout history in various cultures. Consider the repetition and dissemination of such symbols—how the crescent, for instance, has journeyed across continents and epochs, evolving from religious icon to decorative motif. This turban is not merely a piece of costume; it is a point of convergence, a testament to the enduring power of symbols and their ability to transcend time.