Kashmir c. 19th century

This "Kashmir" shawl, dating back to the 19th century, is a prime example of the intricate artistry of Kashmiri weavers. Its design features a central motif of a "buta," a teardrop-shaped pattern often associated with paisley designs, surrounded by a dense and intricate network of smaller buta and floral patterns. The shawl's delicate ivory-white fringe and rich, warm colors, reminiscent of the region's landscape, add to its overall elegance and beauty. This anonymous work, now housed in the Minneapolis Institute of Art, is a testament to the skilled craftsmanship and timeless aesthetic of Kashmiri shawl-making.