Kalaga - Tapestry - 100 cm - 140 cm - Burmese tapestry or Kalaga

The BIRMANIAN KALAGA TARAM or more commonly Kalaga tapestry is a traditional embroidery from Myanmar (Burma). Our tapestry measures 92 cm in height + 8 cm for the fabric rings at the top to be able to hang it with a rod, and 140 cm in width. Red fabric base, entirely embroidered with metallic threads, silk and cotton, glass beads and shiny metal discs on 5 very showy, well-filled cotton padded elephants. In excellent condition with no defects, never hung, always kept wrapped in a cabinet. In Burmese, the word "kalaga" means "tent" or "tapestry". The Kalaga tapestries originate in the mid-1800s, during the Konbaung dynasty. Originally they were used as precious decorations in temples, monasteries and palaces. The drapes are made on a base of fabrics such as cotton or velvet, and may feature details in silk, felt or wool. Their main feature is bas-relief embroidery, obtained by padding the figures with straw or cotton and then stitching the fabric over to create a three-dimensional effect. The stitching technique used for Kalaga tapestries is called Shwe Gyi, and combines silk and metal threads (silver and gilt), glass beads, sequins and colored stones. They often depict scenes from Buddhist mythology, the life of Buddha, from ancient Sanskrit legends, as well as court scenes, mythological animals such as elephants and figures from traditional dance. Traditionally the elephant is regarded as a sacred animal linked to the god Ganesh, a deity who brings strength, protection and good fortune. Photos form part of the description. Quickly very well packed with polystyrene and/or bubble wrap, and shipped with tracking and insurance via the best shipping agencies. Shipping cost includes shipment tracking, packing materials, and insurance of the artwork. Due to customs duties issues and customs procedures, we do not ship to the USA. Corsica and other non-Italian European islands are to be arranged.

Estimate:£76.04

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