Antique Finely Hand-embroidered Mirrored Wall Hanging

Sale price $95.00 Regular price $120.00

This very finely hand-embroidered textile valence with mirrors I believe is an antique Indian Toran, likely from Rajasthan in Northern India. I purchased it from the estate sale of a woman who had a phenomenal collection of textiles from around the world. From what I understand, Toran stems from the Sanskrit word ‘Torana’ which loosely translates "to pass," and Toran would be hung in the home, especially over entrances, to mark passage from exterior to interior, offer welcome, and attract Lakshmijo, the Hindu goddess of wealth.

This one I believe is more than a hundred years old and really beautifully done, with a central pattern of large flowers with mirrored centers alternating with  birds on leafy branches. Each of the eight flaps hanging from the main piece is unique, with different arrangements of birds, flowers, leaves and vines, and circles. A bit faded with time in the very best way, the palette mixes deep red, mustardy yellow, mossy green, pale pink, and cream.  A really wondeful thing to hang on the wall, over a threshold or anywhere! And the perfect wedding or housewarming present!

Very good antique condition. There are a few missing mirrors and embroidery loss in a few spots  (see photos), which I think adds in effect rather than detract there. One of the loops (third from right) for hanging is mostly missing. 42 1/2" long x 13 1/4" tall.