Extremely Fine and Rare Banjara Gala Textile / Fabric. Circa 1900.

Extremely Fine Banjara Gala. Circa 1900. This Banjara textile is a gala which is part of a headdress used for carrying water. It hangs down the back of the neck and is used to show off the woman's needlework skills. The gala is extremely finely embroidered in cotton, with rich natural coloured dyes.

Hand Embroided in Banjara Indian style and tribal techniques. Locally known as Gala, this fabric covers the nape and is used when the water pots are rested on a padded fabric ring on the back, of which is attached a rectangular cloth, which covers the nape of the neck. Banjaras, or the nomadic tribes have a distinctive embroidery style that is immediately recognisable, influenced by many cultures and localities*. The embroidery and motifs are highly influenced by nature and surroundings. The clothes are embroidered with elaborate beadwork, mirror work, shells and colourful threads. This example with white, yellow, green, blues, and maroon threads. Extremely finely woven.

Condition: Superb. Very minor thread bares, and extremely rare in this condition.

Dimensions: Fabric Size: 35cm × 35cm (approx). Framed: 48.5 x 48.5 x 5 cm.

*The Lambani community is considered to be one of the oldest communities in the world. There are numerous stories that explain their origin and migration patterns. Known as a nomadic tribe, they reared buffaloes that were used to transport materials, grains, and salt from one place to another. The Lambanis are a colourful tribe; today, their clothing, ornaments and other accessories have come to define their identities and cultural heritage. The embroidery on their clothes is spectacular and is popular in regions where the Lambanis have settled over time. Consisting of about 40 embroidery techniques, Lambani embroidery has earned a GI Tag in Ballari, Karnataka and is one of the most intricate, beautiful and delicate handicrafts. Lambani embroidery is a perfect culmination of artistry, technique, pattern work and intricacy.