Golden Brown Embroidered Wool Kashmir Shawl

Baroque · 1700s · Indian

This rectangular wool shawl displays the characteristic boteh or paisley motif central to Kashmir textile tradition. The golden-brown ground fabric features intricate embroidered patterns in lighter tones, creating a sophisticated tonal palette. The central design shows a large stylized cypress or tree-of-life motif flanked by smaller paisley forms, all executed in fine needlework. Decorative borders frame the composition with geometric and floral elements. The shawl's construction demonstrates the renowned Kashmir technique of kani weaving or fine embroidery work that made these textiles highly prized luxury items in European markets during the Baroque period.