A finely worked Lahori kantha from the Rajshahi region of Bangladesh, densely embroidered in running stitch with alternating bands of faded red and soft blue. The name Lahori or Lohori is generally associated with lahar or lehar, meaning “wave,” a fitting description for the rhythmic movement created by its repeated geometric stitching.
Here, the field is organized into an expansive pattern of zigzags and chevrons, bordered by large alternating triangular forms. Thousands of short, closely spaced stitches create a gently rippled surface, while small irregularities in spacing and alignment preserve the hand of the maker within the otherwise highly ordered composition.
The restrained palette of ivory, powder blue and pink-red gives the textile a remarkably modern appearance, recalling Op Art and mid-century abstraction while remaining firmly rooted in the domestic embroidery traditions of Bengal.
A particularly strong example of the Lahori kantha tradition, distinguished by its scale, exceptional density of stitching and bold wave-like geometry.
Size: 4' x 6'3" [122cm x 191cm]
Age: Early 20th Century
Country of Origin: Undivided Bengal
Type of Textile: Kantha
Material: Cotton with cotton embroidery
Condition: Very good
TX684
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