Blouse

Unknown

mid-19th–early 20th century · Silk, metal wrapped thread, sequins; embroidered · Islamic Art

Made of an extremely sheer organdy with stripes woven into the fabric, this blouse was produced for sale to foreign visitors. The loosely fitted undershirt typically worn by Ottoman women has been adjusted for European taste to be a more formfitting blouse, similar to those worn in Orientalist photographs of harem women. The hip-length garment has a center front opening and long full sleeves. The sleeves, neck opening and bodice area are decorated with chain stitch embroidery in a dark tan color, perhaps carried out by machine. Embroidery motifs include floral garlands, bouquets, and a star and crescent. A looped thread trim with gold-colored metal sequins finishes the neck opening and sleeve edges. Tassels on the bodice complete the garment’s decoration.

Artist

Unknown

Date

mid-19th–early 20th century

Medium

Silk, metal wrapped thread, sequins; embroidered

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Beaumont Newhall, in memory of his mother, A. Lillia Newhall, 1943