Large Indian Kashmir wool shawl

This cashmere shawl from Kashmir, India, is testimony to the beautiful pieces produced in the region. It features a symmetrical paisley, or boteh pattern, which is inspired by the floral motifs that became popular under the Persian Safavid dynasty, who ruled between 1501-1736; the paisley pattern has grown in popularity internationally ever since. The ends of the shawl are decorated with multi-coloured fringing, which contrast beautifully with the rich, warm, orange tones of the shawl.

Kashmir, a region in northern India and Pakistan, is famous for the high quality of its cashmere products (hence the name: cashmere being an old spelling of kashmir). Cashmere is an exceptionally fine and soft fibre produced by goats of the region, and woven, traditionally, into scarves, shawls and other items of clothing and textiles.