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TASBH/327
Bhutanese
Central and Eastern Bhutan.
Woman's tunic, Shingkha.
Wool, silk.
47in x 38½ in.
Very good. Some slight staining and a few small holes due to age.
Sold
This archaic woolen tunic is known as "leushingkha" due to the maroon color of the body of the garment. Diana Meyers refers to it in From the Land of the Thunder Dragon, as also being known as "kandome atsa" or "angel's dress". This poetic appellation possibly derives from its use as ritual dress by aristocratic women who represent "goddesses" in annual pre-Buddhist religious ceremonies that appease local spirits and avert natural disaster and general misfortune.
 The rectangular form of maroon wool is dramatically embellished with geometric satin and wool appliqué work at the neckline and in two tapering insets under the armholes. A rich palette of sage and olive greens, blue, red and ecru is featured in the larger appliqué as well as the couching along the design edges and the fine silk triangles that border the neckline.
 Shingkhas in general are quite rare today. The condition and aesthetic appeal of this textile make it an exceptional work of Himalayan textile art.
 For more information see From the Land of the Thunder Dragon, Meyers and Bean, 1994, Serinda, London and Peabody Essex Museum, pp.113-116.