Shawl 1820 - 1830

This shawl was made by an anonymous artist and now resides at the Minneapolis Institute of Art. Note the prominent paisley motif that adorns its borders, a symbol rich with historical migrations. The paisley, with its distinctive curved teardrop shape, originated in Persia, where it was known as "Boteh," symbolizing life and eternity. Adopted and adapted by the British in the town of Paisley, Scotland, during the 19th century, it transformed from a symbol of royalty and status to a ubiquitous fashion icon. Yet, its journey did not end there; the paisley has resurfaced time and again. From bohemian counter-culture movements to high-fashion runways, the paisley's allure lies in its ability to evoke exoticism and a sense of timelessness, a testament to the enduring power of visual symbols and their capacity to resonate across cultures.