Caftan c. mid 20th century

This Caftan from an anonymous artist is made with fabric, thread, and trim. Imagine the artist at work, choosing just the right golden-yellow fabric! They want to convey cheerfulness, warmth, and optimism. Each motif is carefully placed and stitched, one after the other, slowly building a whole field of blossoming pink roses. This highly stylized approach reminds me of Henri Matisse. Each flower, a brushstroke. Every square inch, a riot of texture and color. How did the artist feel, creating the work? The artist’s stitching, the subtle variations in the pattern, and the trim all convey a sense of personal touch and craftsmanship. And, like a painter, the artist probably thinks about their predecessors, building upon traditions of art and craft, maybe whispering "thank you" to the many anonymous makers who came before them. Every stitch is part of an ongoing conversation, spanning centuries and cultures.