Robe c. 19th century

This robe was created in the Ottoman Empire from silk and metal-wrapped thread. The fine silk used here would have been a valuable commodity, sourced from distant lands via extensive trade networks. Its delicate weave speaks to the skill of the artisan who made it. The vibrant floral motifs, with stems and blossoms, were achieved through intricate embroidery. This painstaking process enhanced the fabric with texture and depth, transforming it into something more than just cloth. Consider the labour involved in creating such a piece. The cultivation of silk, the spinning of thread, the dyeing of fabric, and the embroidery itself – all required skilled hands and significant time. This robe embodies a world of trade, craft, and artistry. It reminds us that what we often consider fashion or decoration are, in fact, deeply connected to broader issues of labour, politics, and consumption.