Antique Zardozi Peacock Wall Hanging

The heavily padded peacock stands proud of the black velvet ground and is rendered in gold and silver wrapped turquoise silk threads. Enclosed by multiple decorative borders and adorned with thousands of sequins hand stitched to the ground in flower-like patterns. Backed in lightweight black cotton with later heavy gauge hanging loops. 76cm x 151cm (29.9 x 59.4 inches) India circa 1890.

 An unusually large and colourful example. The peacock motif is typical, but is more commonly found embroidered in a monotone gold or silver, on a coloured silk ground. Also unusual to see one mounted as a wall hanging rather than framed, though this may be a later adaption.

The term zardozi comes from Persia and literally means gold work, or gold embroidery as the silk used for the embroidery is wrapped in real gold or silver thread. The craft reached its peak in Mughal India during the 17th century where it could be found enhancing the clothes and tents of the nobility. This piece will most likely have been made for export, they were known to be retailed by Liberty’s of London in the late 19th century.

Condition:Overall presents superbly, no losses (of the sequins or embroidery) and only a couple of loose threads. Three glass beads missing from one of the inner borders. A couple of stains to the velvet ground, most notably to the right of the peacocks head, see images. Paint stain to the reverse. Please see all images and video.

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