Burnus/ Selham

Unknown

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

The burnus (also called a selham) is long, hooded cloak worn in North Africa. The hood is often decorated with one or more pompoms. These garments are typically worn to envelop the body fully, but can also be worn open with the edges tossed over the shoulders or even thrown over the shoulders like a scarf with the hood hanging behind.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 19th–early 20th century

Medium

Silk, metal wrapped thread; embroidered

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Kate Fowler Merle-Smith, 1941