Neck Panel from a Hat c. 1900

This neck panel from a hat was made by a member of the Banjara community, an ethnic group with roots in Rajasthan, India, who are known for their distinctive and vibrant textiles. These textiles are more than just decorative. They are a deeply personal form of cultural expression. The geometric patterns, rich colors, and embellishments of shells speak to the Banjara’s nomadic history, and the resourcefulness required to transform found materials into objects of beauty and meaning. The shells, for instance, might signify the importance of trade routes in the community's economy. Created by women, these textiles are integral to Banjara identity, often forming part of a bride's trousseau and acting as markers of status and identity. This neck panel is an example of adornment as a powerful act of self-representation and cultural preservation. It also serves as an assertion of identity in the face of marginalization. It is an intimate and potent symbol of belonging and resilience.