Yattha Charkhab c. 20th century

This hand-spun wool Yattha Charkhab was created by an anonymous artist and resides in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art. This striking textile encapsulates the rich artistic traditions of Bhutan, likely woven within a domestic setting, reflecting the daily life and skill of its creator. The bold, geometric motifs are not merely decorative; they're visual codes woven with cultural significance. Bhutan's unique geography and spiritual traditions, deeply rooted in Buddhism, infuse the textile with symbolic meanings. The artwork’s creation and preservation raise important questions about art's role outside formal institutions. To understand it, we would want to delve into historical records, oral histories, and anthropological studies. This Yattha Charkhab reminds us that art is deeply embedded in social life and is a product of specific cultural contexts.