Kantha (Embroidered Quilt)

Currently not on view

Kantha (Embroidered Quilt)

Second half of 19th century

Artist/maker unknown, Bengali

Two multitiered rathas (processional chariots) with elaborate trussed construction, each pulled by a single horse, dominate the lower portion of this finely stitched square kantha. A tiny Shiva linga (a pillarlike icon) visible in each of the upper chambers indicates that these rathas are taking part in a religious procession. Also in the lower panel is a man dressed in what is likely a nineteenth-century military uniform, including boots, a short jacket, and a cap. The top left square encloses a single man with a conical hat, while the far right square frames a fashionable Calcutta couple. Though stitched for an intimate, familial context, kanthas give expression to the rich complexity of urban life in Bengal.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Kantha (Embroidered Quilt)

Date:

Second half of 19th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Bengali

Medium:

Cotton plain weave with cotton embroidery in back, buttonhole, darning, outline, running, seed, stem stitch shading, surface satin, eye, and fern stitches

Dimensions:

38 1/2 x 37 inches (97.8 x 94 cm)

Classification:

Textiles

Credit Line:

Stella Kramrisch Collection, 1994

Accession Number:

1994-148-704

Geography:

Made in Undivided Bengal, Asia Possibly made in Faridpur District, Bangladesh, Asia Possibly made in West Bengal, India, Asia

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Currently not on view