Traditional Bhutanese Kira Dress, 19th C. This textile, crafted from cotton with raw silk patterning, measures 55'' x 91'' (140 x 231 cm). Originally woven as a long, narrow panel with supplementary weft, it was later cut into ten panels and joined together. Traditionally, such rectangular textiles were worn by wrapping them around the body, folding them into a wide pleat at the front, and securing them at the shoulders with ornate silver and gold brooches. These garments were typically belted tightly and bloused around the waist to form a pouch, often worn over a blouse and topped by a jacket. Notably, the width of the panels suggests its age, predating the introduction of wider looms. The plaid design features maroon with accents of green, yellow, blue, and white, with groups of five multicolored, geometric cross shapes centered within squares created by the yellow weave. Provenance: Ex Yosi Barzilai collection.

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