We acknowledge the Gadigal of the Eora Nation, the traditional custodians of the Country on which the Art Gallery of NSW stands.

Title

Woman’s robe (munisak)

circa 1850-1875

Artists

Unknown Artist

No image

  • Details

    Other Title
    Woman’s ceremonial robe
    Place where the work was made
    Bukhara → Uzbekistan
    Date
    circa 1850-1875
    Media category
    Textile
    Materials used
    silk, cotton; velvet, warp resist dyeing (ikat)
    Dimensions
    104.5 x 164.0 cm; 118.5 cm sleeve to sleeve
    Credit
    David Jones Fund 2010
    Location
    South Building, lower level 1, Asian Lantern galleries
    Accession number
    118.2010
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  • About

    Known as abrabandi or ‘cloud dyeing’, the complex technique of tying and dyeing threads with a pattern before weaving is closely associated with the fine textiles of Central Asia. Velvet ikat, which was only made in Uzbekistan for a brief period between about 1850 and 1875, is among the most admired of these cloths.

    This munisak women’s robe features a design inspired by the bold jewellery of the region. With its dazzling colours, fitted waist and V-shaped neckline, it would have been the most sumptuous garment in a wealthy bride’s dowry.

    In many traditions, the munisak was first worn on a woman’s wedding day and later for occasions which marked rites of passage.

  • Exhibition history

    Shown in 3 exhibitions