1920s Art Deco Assuit Shawl
In 1922 Howard Carter discovered King Tuts tomb beginning the craze for Egyptomania. Exotic linen net stoles were imported from Assuit, the Egyptian city in which they were made and for which they were named. The linen net was hand decorated with flat metal strips wrapped through the open weave in decorative motifs. Geometrics were most commonly used, a reflection of the Art Deco taste, with some of the most prized patterns featuring people, animals and buildings.
This lovely shawl features a central diamond as well as rows of people with hands linked, trees and buildings. The metal strips catch the light and shimmer as the stole is being worn. Condition is excellent with one small repair, about an inch long, along one edge which is only noticeable under close inspection. A lovely and wearable stole.
