Textiles

A striking Japanese embroidery tapestry circa 1890s Meiji period presented in a gilt wood frame under glaze. The design features four dragons coiling and slithering in the clouds. The most auspicious mythological creature, dragon was a very popular motif in Japanese textile art. Viewing this particular piece, one is struck by the superb craftsmanship with the profuse use of silver threads in satin stitches and complex chain stich coiling that create the background. The slight relief technique was also used on parts of the dragon heads, rendering the piece a strong sense of dimension and motion. The textile itself measures about 32.5"x46". Japanese Meiji textiles were widely exhibited in the west during turn of the 20th century at the international exposition. It was used to showcase the Japanese aesthetics with the techniques at their pinnacle. These expositions solidified the country's images overseas and felled the Japanese craze in the west, which turned out to be a long-lasting influence on the western art. Many pieces were purchased and stayed in the west. As there is no brocade border present, the piece is likely the main part with the central motifs of a larger tapestry and was later framed for display. For two similar dragon tapestries...

This Ikat textile originates from the Island of Timor, Indonesia. It is hand-woven using naturally dyed yarns via a method passed on through generations. It features a predominantly ...

A rich and luxurious kain limar songket, shoulder cloth for a woman, ikat dyed and woven silk (limar) with supplementary weft woven metallic gold thread brocade (songket), circa 1900...

A fine example of a batik textile from Solo, Java, Indonesia. This textile features wonderful detailing & contrast. It features a wonderful array of flor...

Tabriz, the capital of the northwestern Iranian province of Azerbaijan, has for centuries enjoyed a great reputation as a centre of Persian culture. Under the benign patronage of Sha...

On offer is a set of five Japanese textile art panels called Oshi-E circa Meiji Period (1868-1912). This unusual set of panels depict various aspects of daily life in Edo time with beautiful details. Some of these panels are snapshots of the buzzling commercial activities at the marketplace, providing insight into the signages, architecture, costumes and how people interacted within a historical and pictorial context. Other panels depict daily leisure activities such as lounging in the park or visiting friends. The realistic rendering and attention to details are not short of "photographic" quality. From the signage of the shops to the motions and attires of the individual characters, from the hairstyle, small ornaments, down to the facial expression, were all recorded in great details. Each panel was signed with the artist's name Yukihana in Kanji with a red seal. These panels are unframed and await your custom touch (framing with inner gilt spacer and mat costs about 250-500 depending on the material chosen, see a framed example in the last picture of a single framed panel we have for sale). We offer them for sale individually, but it will be great for a collector to consider the whole set so that they can stay together. The Oshi-E (also known as kiritori zaiku) is a type of ornamental textile art dated back to the Muromachi period (1392-1573). It started among the elite aristocratic women in Kyoto before spreading wider in the Japanese society. Throughout Edo and Meiji period, Oshi-E were sometimes used to make offerings to the altars in the temple and in the late 19th century, it was exported to the west along with the other embroidery textile art. Oshi-E was made by using silk wadding to create a relief design. Various silk fabric swaps and sometimes wires and tassels, often recycled from older kimonos...

An exceptionally large & exceedingly fine hand embroidered Chinese matrimonial 'Double Happiness' silk panel. The navy blue silk field richly decorated with hand-stitched gold, silve...

A fine example of a batik textile from Solo, Java, Indonesia. This textile features wonderful detailing & contrast. It features a wonderful array of flor...

A spectacular antique Chinese embroidery panel dated from (circa 19th century), professionally framed with linen mat, purchased from A...

Antique Turkman Bokhara rug, small size An antique Turkman Bokhara rug, size 4'7" x 3'10", circa 1900. This handsome hand-woven geometric rug features a symmetrical design allover...

This rare persimmon tannin–dyed washi rug dates from the late Meiji to Taisho period (early 20th century) and was traditionally used to protect tatami mats from sunlight or serve as ...

This textile is a “Suzani” from Central Asian nomadic peoples primarily from Kazakhstan, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan. Suzanis are embroidered textiles composed of mainly Cotton. They a...

Embroidered silk relief tapestry depicting a dragon and a kirin in the clouds. A silk tapestry embroidered in relief with polychrome threads, depicting two mythological figures: a r...

This is an antique Egyptian textile woven during the first quarter of the 20th century circa 1920s and measures 184 x 90cm in size. this textile depicts ...

This Ikat textile originates from the Island of Timor, Indonesia. It is hand-woven using naturally dyed yarns via a method passed on through generations. A wonderful textile with dis...

A framed Japanese woven textile circa late 19th century of Meiji Period. Likely a fragment of a priest robe or kesa, the multi-paneled textile was finely woven with gold foiled threads that depicts a five-clawed dragon slithering in the clouds and water...

Antique Spanish rug, Room size, circa 1920 A one-of-a-kind antique Spanish Carpet, hand-knotted with short wool pile. This beautiful rug is a unique double-faced carpet...

A pair of fine Korean silk embroidered rank badge (Hyungbae in Korean) from Joseon Dynasty circa late 19th century. A matching pair of Hyungbae like these ...

Vintage Spanish Savonnerie rug, room size, circa 1930. A one-of-a-kind vintage European Savonnerie Oriental carpet, hand-knotted with sh...

Vintage Arabian Mughal leather shoes with gold embroidered curled toe. Amazing vintage Mughal Middle Eastern Moorish gold embroidered shoes with gold t...

A fine Korean silk embroidered rank badge (Hyungbae in Korean) from Joseon Dynasty circa late 19th century. The badge features a design of double flying cr...

Late 19th Century Chinese Silk & Metal Embroidery 1' 9'' x 12' 9''-53 x 387

Bakshaish is a town on the banks of the Talke Rud River in the Heriz region of Northwest Persia. Situated in the mountainous region 60 miles east of the large city of Tabriz, Bakshai...

An exceptional and visually arresting vintage Uchikake wedding kimono from the late Meiji to early Taisho period (circa 1910s–1930s), originally designed for ceremonial bridal wear. ...

In the most technical sense of the word, ""Suzani,"" in Central Asia and Iran, means needle and is used to describe this type of needlework, but to most people, such as decorators or...

Taking a cue from the undulating shapes of our indigo velvet pillows, Wave is a bold and artful design, seen here in Silver gray. Pigment printed on 100% Belgian Linen. Designed in N...

Superb embroidered silk Fukusa, wedding gift wrapping silk cloth decorated with auspicious motive. Condition : Fine original condition with only minor abrasions and very ...

This framed silk brocade tapestry is one half of a magnificent Qing-dynasty chair panel, or chair strip. Because traditional Chinese seating was not upho...

Japanese horse trapping, "Uma-No-Haragake", Tsutsugaki, cotton, Meiji period This type of haragake is called yuiage ("tied up"). The central portion covered the belly of the horse an...

Early 20th child Middle Eastern Efe Zeybek Jacket. Kid Efe Zeybek Costume Turkish authentic ethnic vest. Dark brown red velvet with gold foliates and gold trim. Open sleeves, red cotton lining. Antique collector red velvet jacket with gold Middle Eastern Moorish style embroidery. Small tiny Turkish antique vest...

Antique Leather and purple velvet suede Mughal Moorish Turkish Shoes with Gold Embroidered. A pair of rare late 19th century early 20th hand stitched and...

A striking vintage hand-woven Ikat textile panel from Indonesia, dating to the mid-1900s. This artisanal piece features a bold abstract design, achieved through the meticulous process of warp ikat—a technique in which the threads are selectively tie-dyed before weaving to create complex, interlocking patterns. Woven from natural cotton fibers, this panel likely originates from the Lesser Sunda Islands in eastern Indonesia, possibly from the culturally rich island of Sumba. The intricate craftsmanship and dynamic geometric forms reflect traditional Indonesian textile artistry while offering a timeless, global aesthetic. Ideal for display as wall-mounted tribal art, this textile adds texture, heritage, and warmth to any interior, whether as a centerpiece in modern spaces or a complementary accent in eclectic or traditional décor. Dimensions: 21” x 48” Date of Manufacture: Mid 20th Century Place of Origin: Indonesia Material: Cotton Condition: Good The Persian Knot Gallery, SKU: 2250 vintage Indonesian Ikat, handwoven Ikat textile, tribal textile art, Sumba Ikat panel, mid-century Indonesian fabric, antique Ikat wall hanging, abstract woven textile, Lesser Sunda Islands textile, ethnic home decor, Indonesian cotton Ikat, tribal wall art, global decor textile, vintage woven panel, traditional Indonesian fabric, hand-dyed Ikat textile, Southeast Asian textile art, collector Ikat, woven abstract art, Indonesian heritage textile, bohemian wall hanging, Indonesian Ikat Textile...

Antique Asian Ottoman style vest in emerald green velvet decorated with elaborate gold thread, trimmed with gold metallic thread. Elegant vest handmade embroidery on green silk velve...

An antique Tibetan Thankga depicting Amitabha and surrounding deities, circa late 19th century. The center Amitabha is in a meditation form holding a black beggar's bowl. In the Mahayana Tradition of Buddhism, Amitabha is a celestial Buddha: the Buddha of Infinite Light and the principal Buddha in Pure Land Buddhism, a branch of East Asian Buddhism...

1950’s Vintage Kitchen Towels – Mixed Selection. We have a large stock of these heavy weight kitchen towels from Hungary. Some are new old stock, some are well washed and loved. All...

A beautiful piece with an incredible history. This exquisite hand-embroidered tapestry was created in Japan and purchased by an American man who taught English. The scene depicts a t...

Suzani, a Central Asian term for a specific type of needlework, is also the broader name for the hugely popular decorative pieces of textile that feature this needlework in vivid col...

Hand embroidered and quilted textile from North India. Large Mughal silk and metal threaded tapestry Fanciful Asian folk designs this distinctive quilt wor...

In the most technical sense of the word, "Suzani," in Central Asia and Iran, means needle and is used to describe this type of needlework, but to most people, such as decorators or c...

This is an antique silk Azerbaijan embroidery woven during the 18th century and measures 76 x 74CM in size. It has an all-over highly geometric floral design with muted pastel colors...

Vintage Moorish Moroccan blue caftan, circa 1970s. Vintage Moorish Maxi Dress kaftan in Excellent condition never worn. Made in Morocco and imported for Mr...

African Batik Cloth Natural Hand-woven Hand-Printed Cotton Fabric Ghana 10 yards. Colors are organic earth tone beige and light brown in geometric design. Non waxed fabric circa 1950s. Hand made in Ghana Africa. Museum Quality Original Long Piece. 380 inches, (30 ft 10 yards Long) x 46 inches Inches Wide( 4ft). Could be use to make pillows or upholstery. History of Batik in Africa: Batik, a traditional fabric art technique, has a rich history in Ghana, West Africa. The practice of batik involves using wax to create intricate patterns on fabric, which is then dyed to achieve the desired design. While batik has its origins in Asia, particularly in Indonesia, it has been embraced and adapted by various African countries, including Ghana. In Ghana, batik-making can be traced back to the mid-20th century when it gained popularity as a form of traditional textile art. The craft was introduced by artists and artisans who were inspired by the vibrant and expressive nature of batik. These early practitioners experimented with different designs, colors, and patterns, infusing local themes and motifs into their creations. Over time, batik became an important part of Ghanaian culture and identity. It is not only used for clothing but also for various decorative and functional items such as wall hangings, tablecloths, and accessories. The art form often reflects the rich cultural heritage of Ghana, incorporating symbols, proverbs, and traditional stories into the designs. Ghanaian batik artists often employ a combination of traditional and contemporary elements, creating a unique fusion of styles. The process of making batik involves applying hot wax to the fabric using various tools to create the desired patterns. The wax acts as a resist, preventing dye from penetrating the waxed areas. After dyeing, the wax is removed, revealing the intricate designs on the fabric. Today, batik-making in Ghana continues to thrive as both a traditional craft and a form of artistic expression. Many artisans and designers draw inspiration from Ghana's diverse cultural landscape, incorporating elements from different regions and ethnic groups into their batik creations. The art form has also gained international recognition, with Ghanaian batik products being sought after both locally and abroad. In summary, the history of batik in Ghana is a testament to the creativity and adaptability of artists who have embraced and transformed this traditional technique into a vibrant and culturally significant art form within the country. HISTORY OF BATIK In the mid-nineteenth century, the Belanda Hitam, or "Black Dutchmen," are said to have introduced batik to West Africa after serving as indentured soldiers for the Dutch in Indonesia. Returning from their conscriptions with trunks of fine Javanese batik, the opulent patterns captured the imagination of their friends and relatives. However, textile history is complex, and only a handful of recruits returned to West Africa with batik due to delayed payments. Batik, with roots traced to Egyptian mummies, is a tradition found globally, from Southeast Asia to Japan and India. Europeans, particularly the Dutch, played a significant role in industrializing batik from the seventeenth century onward. In West Africa, Dutch Scholar Ineke van Kessel suggests that batik arrived from India over trans-Saharan routes. Local populations, like the Yoruba in Nigeria, incorporated wax printing into their textiles. European traders brought wax and non-wax fabrics to West Africa in the seventeenth century, targeting a population ready for their consumption. European designers adapted prints for the African market...

A beautiful Japanese textile art panel with an embroidered dragon on a swirling cloud background, nicely framed with a linen matt in an antique-fi...

In the most technical sense of the word, "Suzani," in Central Asia and Iran, means needle and is used to describe this type of needlework, but to most people, such as decorators or c...

Vintage Samarkand Suzani, Uzbekistan embroidered textile red and black Tashkent Suzani from Samarkand Uzbekistan, 1950. Overall good condition for its age and use some stains. "Suzani" means needlework and these embroideries are some of the most characteristic forms of textile art from Central Asia. The mastery of color and the dynamic sense of movement they convey continue to add depth and joy to contemporary interiors. A high level of creative variation and the individuation of each flower are what make each piece unique. Measures: 67.5" x 57". The Silk Road Bukhara: Like scattered pearls along the vast expanse of the Great Silk Road, the cities of Uzbekistan glisten radiantly under the unforgiving sun. This nation, nestled in a picturesque oasis, holds a treasure trove of historical artifacts, owing to its advantageous position at the heart of the ancient Silk Road network. In the year 138 BC, a transformative era commenced as China graciously opened its borders to trade, giving rise to caravans that embarked upon this illustrious route. These trading pathways served as conduits not only for the exchange of goods and craftsmanship but also for the intermingling of cultures, beliefs, and wisdom. Even today, within the ancient walls of cities like Samarkand, one can still discern the echoes of bustling voices, the melodious jingle of camel harnesses...

A Chinese Qing dynasty period cinnabar lacquer leather pillow from an antique opium bed, with hand painted floral motifs. Created in China during the...

A Japanese silk embroidery Fukusa panel circa 1890-1910s toward the end of Meiji Period. On the deep blue satin background, the artist showcases a clump of bamboos in a realistic sty...

An exquisite and visually commanding vintage Uchikake wedding kimono from Japan, dating from the late Meiji to early Taisho period (circa 1910s–1930s). Traditionally worn by brides ...

Post War II Chinese silk embroidery of a five-clawed imperial dragon in rendered orange thread against a green background. The words "Shanghai China" are embroidered below the dragon...

Antique Framed Chinese Embroidery Panel C.1920 Embroidered with an exotic bird perched on a cherry blossom tree, a butterfly hovering above ...

A fine example of a batik textile from Solo, Java, Indonesia. This textile features wonderful detailing & contrast. It features a wonderful array of flor...

This is a traditional Japanese noren (fabric shop curtain) dating to the Taisho period (1912–1926), crafted from cotton dyed with persimmon tannin (kaki...

In the most technical sense of the word, "Suzani," in Central Asia and Iran, means needle and is used to describe this type of needlework, but to most people, such as decorators or c...

Hand embroidered in Japan, this large framed silk embroidered wall art was made in Meiji era, approximated 1900s. Very detailed hand embroidere...

A finely embroidered Japanese silk Fukusa panel presented in a beautiful silk-lined giltwood frame (newly framed and glazed), circa late 19th century of Meiji Period. Fukusa is a traditional Japanese textile art used to wrap and present gifts at important occasions. Depending on the occasion, the panel itself can be a very fine textile art on its own. On the deep blue background, this elaborate textile art depicts an old couple standing on a bridge with three bystanders, flanked by pine trees with hills afar. The couple is Jotomba (Joo and Uba are their respective names), characters in the Legend of Takasago, one of the oldest Japanese mythologies, who are associated with old pines. The legend goes as: "At Takasago Shrine there is a very old pine tree, the trunk of which is bifurcated; in it dwells the spirit of the Maiden of Takasago who was seen once by the son of Izanagi who fell in love and wedded her. Both lived to a very great age, dying at the same hour on the same day, and since then their spirits abide in the tree, but on moonlight nights they return to human shape to revisit the scene of their earthly felicity and pursue their work of gathering pine needles. His pine tree is called “The Pine of Suminoe” while hers is "Takasago pine". In Japan, Takasago couple...

Moroccan Kaftan Black Velvet Vest with Gold Embroideries This Moroccan traditional kaftan is embroidered and embellished with gold trim. Evening Moroccan ...

African Mali indigo textile circa 1950. Handwoven, vegetable dyed cotton. We only select the best. This soft textile was sourced in the spirit of Wabi-Sabi, a Japanese philosophy th...

Decorative cushion cover made of hand embroidery silk on linen background, flowers and vine motifs, linen backing with zipper, no insert. Delicate and specialised washing advised. M...

A vibrant vintage silk Suzani embroidery from Uzbekistan, this hand-crafted textile showcases the rich cultural heritage of Central Asian artisanship. Originally created as a decorative tent panel, this piece features six large medallions intricately embroidered in silk threads on a bold red cotton ground. The floral motifs come alive in vivid hues of crimson, green, ivory, yellow, and purple, arranged in symmetrical, meditative patterns. The intricate detailing and radiant palette highlight the traditional craftsmanship and ceremonial significance of Suzani textiles, often associated with blessings, protection, and prosperity. This visually captivating panel can be displayed as wall art, used as a table runner, or integrated into a layered textile arrangement for a touch of cultural sophistication. A collectible and visually impactful textile that brings story, color, and artisan texture into refined interiors. Dimensions: 24” x 128" Date of Manufacture: 2nd Quarter of the 1900s Place of Origin: Uzbekistan Material: Silk embroidery on cotton Condition: Wear consistent with age and use The Persian Knot Gallery, SKU 1674 vintage Uzbek Suzani, silk embroidery Suzani, red background Suzani, Central Asian textile art, Suzani tent panel, hand-crafted Uzbek textile, embroidered medallion Suzani, floral silk embroidery, collectible Uzbek embroidery, traditional Suzani decor, Suzani wall hanging, Uzbek table...

The painterly effect obtained by mixing varying proportions of ivory and indigo wool is peculiar to this family of northern Chinese weavings. As most of them were sourced directly in...