This is an antique mid-1800’s, red, woven, wool, paisley, Kashmir shawl from
India. It is a square shawl measuring 5 x 5 feet in size. The handmade,
paisley, print border is on all edges and was slowly & painstakingly woven on a
jacquard loom. The large, paisley borders measure 6 inches wide and the
smaller, woven borders measure 3 inches wide. This shawl was meant to be folded
in a triangle and worn over the shoulders as evidenced by the reversed, paisley
border on 2 sides so that the finished jacquard would always be on view. The
center of this piece is solid, black wool as well as the outer edge which is
self fringed. Unfortunately this Kashmir shawl has had a tough life complete
with, stains, holes, tears and fading throughout. The best use for this shawl
now is probably to take it apart and use the paisley, jacquard borders for a
sewing project or craft. Most of the numerous holes are in the black sections
and I have not been able to show all of them, but there are also some less
noticeable ones in the red, jacquard section as well. Back in the day these
shawls were prized possessions and very expensive. Please be sure before
purchasing as this item is not returnable.