Sari c. 19th century

Editor: Here we have a beautiful Sari, created around the 19th century, made of silk and gold threads, and held in the collection of the Minneapolis Institute of Art. I am struck by the intricate patterns and the sense of luxury it conveys. What's your perspective on this piece? Curator: As a materialist, I find this Sari incredibly compelling, as it exemplifies the complex interplay of materials, labor, and social value. We can examine the silk and gold, tracing their origins, their trade routes, and the specialized labor needed to transform raw materials into such an exquisite textile. Consider also the social context in which this sari would have been worn – who created it, who wore it, and what did its creation and use signify about status and identity? Editor: So, it’s not just about aesthetics, but more about the journey of the materials and the people involved? Curator: Precisely. Think about the intense hand labor involved in weaving and embroidering with gold threads. How does that labor intersect with the concept of luxury? Are we romanticizing craftsmanship, or should we also consider potential exploitation of labor in its creation? Editor: That’s a really interesting point. It makes you think about the story behind the beautiful object in a different way. It also sort of questions the definition of "art," blurring the line between functional object and artistic expression. Curator: Absolutely. By questioning these boundaries, we begin to understand how so-called ‘craft’ objects like this sari were and still are integral to the economy, cultural identity, and artistry. Thinking through these critical contexts really allows us to appreciate this sari beyond its immediate visual impact. Editor: I will definitely look at textiles differently from now on!