Pillow c. 19th century

Curator: Before us, we have a "Pillow," dating from around the 19th century. It’s currently residing here at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Editor: It gives off such a feeling of homey comfort, you know? Not something precious, but sturdy and welcoming, a piece meant to be loved and, yes, used! Look at all that careful detail, and imagine actually resting your head on it every night. Curator: Indeed! Made from wool and cotton textiles through a weaving technique, this pillow displays a vibrant array of folk-art motifs typical of Orientalist decorative arts. Those bold colors... the repeating geometric patterns alongside the stylized animals, probably some birds! Editor: Yes, all carefully woven. And the little tassels are charming—imagine the maker, choosing the colors, knotting each strand… how the repetitive process, thread by thread, slowly reveals the forms. Were these the only accessible forms for this individual? It's a kind of labour, a conversation really, between the material and the maker. What a wonderful testament of patience and attention. Curator: Absolutely. These textiles had functions of course but they transcend pure utility. You get this sense of ritual involved, the stories and cultural traditions woven into the fabric itself. Note also how this is probably made of diverse pieces put together – this piecing adds another layer, it is not only weaving, it’s also like a tapestry work where different materials, colors and even symbols converge… Do you think, or could it evoke dreams or aspirations from a different time? Editor: Perhaps. Looking closer at this, I see what appears to be maybe two stylized deers within the piece - facing in different directions, divided by more angular patterning... but the composition with two images so distinctly centered lends such a feeling of balance and order to it that it could easily inspire the sweetest of slumbers... or wildest adventures depending. Curator: Indeed. It’s hard not to feel a certain enchantment with this artifact! A simple thing, yet a gateway to so much imagination and craft, isn't it? Editor: Definitely a great example of how the everyday object, infused with creative attention, transforms from simple utility into enduring beauty and cultural witness.