Farajiya / Farasia Kaftan

Unknown

early 20th century · Cotton, silk · Islamic Art

The type of garment referred to as kaftan was known in Persia and the Ottoman Empire before arriving in Morocco, probably in the 16th century. Kaftans made of elegant materials such as silk brocade or velvet were reserved for special occasions. This thin, diaphanous garment is known as a farasia (sometimes spelled farajiya) and was worn over another kaftan, typically by high ranking members of the Moroccan elite.

Artist

Unknown

Date

early 20th century

Medium

Cotton, silk

Department

Islamic Art

Credit line

Gift of Jessie Franklin Turner, 1942