Shawl or head wrap c. mid 20th century

This Shawl or Head Wrap, of unknown date, was made with cotton or linen. I love that it is anonymous, because you feel the maker's hand so directly. The texture is palpable, isn't it? The plain weave, the fringes, the thin, dark lines dividing the fabric into rough sections. These are not perfect divisions, but they make the shawl more interesting. They feel so human. Look at how the cotton has aged, with subtle stains and marks of use. It reminds me of Agnes Martin's grids, but less rigid and more intimate. This piece isn't about hiding the process; it’s about embracing it. You see the evidence of wear, the slight imperfections in the lines, the irregularities of the fringe. This isn't about perfection; it's about life, utility, and the beauty of simple creation. It's a gentle reminder that art can be found in the everyday, in the things we use and cherish.