Summary

Alternative Nam(S): Uzbek Caftan, Kaftan

Man's purple velvet and gold thread caftan from present-day Bukhara (Bokhara), a city in Uzbekistan. Design of ornate foliage.

This and another caftan, ST 018217, were donated in 1930 without provenance, and are undated. An early Museums Victoria label reads:

'Two Bokjara (Bukhara) Robes of Velvet with Gold and Silver Brocade Probably for Use by High Officials

'The original dresses (caftans) worn by men of Bokhara are devoid of buttons, hooks and pockets, only a single hook button being sometimes employed. They are fastened by a band or coloured handkerchief wrapped round the waist. The sleeves are always much longer than the arms, and two or more dresses are worn, one over the other, the material and number depending upon the rank and circumstances of the individual.'

Physical Description

Consists of purple velvet with embroidery mainly of gold thread and some silver thread, small pink velvet inserts in some areas of embroidery. Design of ornate foliage extending from a goblet-shaped planter or vase; long vertical design down back. Side slits at hem 21 cm long. Cuffs, hem and front opening have embroidered border 8.5 cm wide. Unlined.

Significance

The caftan has visual similarities (cut, side slits, trim, etc) to two caftans from Bukhara, Uzebkistan held in the MET collection: 1971.38.2, made of silk with embroidered metal wrapped thread and ikat weave lining, late 19th-early 20th century; and C.I.52.45, made of silk with embroidered metal wrapped thread, late 18th-early 19th century.

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