Kerchief

Currently not on view

Kerchief

First half of 19th century

Artist/maker unknown, Indian

For daytime and sporting wear, the mid-nineteenth century male could add a bright touch to his dress with a colorful and patterned neckcloth. A practical alternative to stiffer neckwear, kerchiefs and Indian bandanas (from the Hindi word for tie-dye) had been worn since the late eighteenth century. These large squares, folded diagonally and wrapped and tied around the neck, were of silk or cotton and were made either in India or in Europe following the Indian style; as the inscription on the top silk example shows, they could be given as gifts.

Currently not on view

Object Details

Title:

Kerchief

Date:

First half of 19th century

Artist:

Artist/maker unknown, Indian

Medium:

Block-printed silk plain weave

Dimensions:

37 x 35 3/4 inches (94 x 90.8 cm)

Classification:

Textiles

Credit Line:

Gift of Charles Henry Baker, 1912

Accession Number:

1912-240

Geography:

Made in Serampur, West Bengal, India, Asia

We are always open to learning more about our collections and updating the website. Does this record contain inaccurate information or language that you feel we should improve or change? Contact us here.

Please note that this particular artwork might not be on view when you visit. Don’t worry—we have plenty of exhibitions for you to explore.

Currently not on view