Man's turban (Divali pagri) c. 1900

This Divali pagri, or man’s turban, was made by an anonymous artist. Its surface is dominated by a grid-like pattern of diamonds against a dark, subtly lustrous fabric. Consider how the artist uses repetition of shape and color to create a visual rhythm. The diamonds, each filled with small dots, form a network that covers the entire surface, suggesting both unity and infinity. This pattern flattens the material, almost negating its three-dimensionality. The use of pattern in this turban engages with broader traditions of textile design, where motifs often carry symbolic meanings beyond their aesthetic appeal. Here, the meticulous arrangement of small elements into a larger, cohesive design may reflect cultural values around order and harmony. It is worth contemplating how such an object worn on the body becomes not just a piece of clothing but a statement of identity and belonging.