Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson$270.00

  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
  • Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson
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Size: extra small
Rare Vintage Rabari Embroidered Choli Top -crimson

These tops are incredibly special: this one was made in the early 20th Century, and all of them were embroidered by hand by the Rabari people, an ethnic group, who today reside primarily in northern and central India, and Pakistan. They have long been known for their impressive embroidery, which traditionally is painstaking completed by hand in vibrant colors.

All of them were found without the original tie closure, so they have been modified with the silk-covered elastic back strap; the strap attaches to the top with hidden hook/eye closures. The tops vary somewhat in their measurements but note that they will best fit a petite frame; the elastic back does offer some flexibility as it stretches. The arm openings are on the small side, especially at the binding, but on all tops they get roomier at the top towards the shoulder.

This top is mainly a rich red, with indigo patches at the chest. There is very intricate embroidery on the sleeves, which is a hallmark of the Rabari culture. The Rabari were also known to embroider small mirrors onto clothing, which can be found on one sleeve. There are some markings on the fabric but it's considered a part of the pattern and the natural variations of this historic object.

Measurements: Opening at bottom: 25.25" / Sleeve opening: 8.5" / Sleeve width under armpit: 14.25" / Total sleeve length: 10.75"

This item is sold from an excellent, highly rated vintage seller in New York, NY.

This item is sold from an excellent, highly rated vintage seller in New York, NY.

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