This large piece of textile is known in Persian as termeh. Dateable to the late nineteenth century, the handwoven silk and wool fabric was produced in the region of Yazd, a city famous for its textile production. The inscription with numerals at both ends indicates the fabric's workshop. The most common designs for termeh is the paisley motif. Known in Persian as boteh, a tear-shaped element that was already popular in the Sassanian dynasty and enjoyed a revival in the nineteenth century. The background colors are usually jujube red, light red, green, orange and black. Intricately designed, termeh fabrics were favored during the Qajar period for making robes of honor (khil'at), which the rulers bestowed on members of the nobility and high ranking officials as a royal favor and award. As such, robes made from termeh are included in numerous royal Qajar portraits.
Collection:
National Museum of Asian Art Collection
Exhibition History:
The Prince and the Shah: Royal Portraits from Qajar Iran (February 24 to August 5, 2018)
