Shawl (Pano) c. 1920

This shawl, or pano, of unknown date and maker, is an eloquent example of textile production. The delicate material, likely cotton or a similar plant-based fiber, has been transformed through patient handwork. Look closely and you'll see the regular grid of stitches, each one placed with care. The technique speaks to the cultural significance of weaving and needlework, where cloth becomes more than mere fabric – it becomes a carrier of stories. Notice the texture of the textile, its draping quality and the visual effect of the repeating patterns, achieved through the controlled manipulation of the thread. Consider too, the labor involved in creating this piece. Weaving is traditionally a communal activity, where knowledge and skill are passed down through generations. The pano is a testament to the creativity, technical prowess, and cultural values embedded in the act of making. It asks us to reconsider the boundaries between art, craft, and the everyday objects that enrich our lives.