19th Century Indian Cotton & Crushed Shell Qanat Tent Hanging

This cotton Qanat Tent panel with applied crushed seashell decoration from India in the 19th century is a unique and rare piece. It features crushed seashells that are suspended in lacquer and applied to a parma background, which is decorated with birds, plants, and leafy interlacing patterns in a border. The panel is lined with a linen canvas for stability.
India, Circa 1850

Length: 189 cms (74.5 ins)
Width: 98 cms (38.5 ins)

This type of textile art was often used to create decorative panels or hangings that could be used to adorn walls or as decorative elements in homes and public spaces. The use of natural materials such as cotton and seashells was a hallmark of this traditional art form, and it was prized for its beauty and durability.

Despite some small restoration and isolated traces of humidity, the piece is in overall good condition. The use of crushed seashells in decoration is a traditional technique in India. This panel is a beautiful example of this art form, showcasing the reflective qualities of the crushed seashells, and the skilled craftsmanship that went into creating it.