It's February now, but winter is still continuing.
We would like to introduce you to a shawl made from the wool of sheep raised by the Rabari people of Kutch, woven by weavers called Vankars.
Marwari sheep wool handwoven fringe shawl
Nowadays, wool is generally associated with softness, so a fabric that retains the original roughness of wool is refreshing. Once you put it on, it feels as if a sheep is standing there.
As this fabric has been used by people living in the desert, where it is hot during the day and cold at night, it is resistant to the heat and cold of the sun and is also very practical.
This design was created by Shamji Vishram Valji. There are two types of yarn dyed with indigo and one with lac and acacia. At first glance, the indigo color looks more traditional and the combination of lac and acacia looks more modern, but in fact it is the other way around.
Lac and acacia are the colors that Vankal has traditionally dyed threads with. And it is said that they were the first to dye with indigo in the history of Vankal. Shamji dyes threads in indigo vats that he made himself. (Currently, the indigo is being protected by his younger brother Dinesh and nephew Ashok.)
It can be used as a large shawl by both men and women. It can also be used as a coat when traveling by car. It can also be used as a bed throw to hang at the foot of the bed.
Please enjoy the old and new winter continental fabrics made by the Vankars of Kutch.
*You can also see it at the current exhibition at TOKYO OUTBOUND.