Rare Antique Afghan Embroidered Ceremonial Bridal Waistcoat

An extraordinary piece of history, this antique Afghan bridal bodice/waistcoat, is believed to have formed part of a traditional wedding outfit and is completely handmade and densely decorated. It features intricate embroidery and blue glass beadwork, mother-of-pearl buttons, tassels and rows of suspended silver-coloured coins with some kind of Perso-Arabic origin. These old traditional pieces were intensely personal creations, with coins, buttons and other treasured trade pieces instilled into their decoration. We reckon this dates from the late nineteenth or early twentieth century, this piece is perfect for the collector and would look magnificent displayed. Equally, it could be worn as part of an eccentric outfit by a suitably petite person.

Measurements:

Bust: 30"

Underbust: 28"

Shoulder to shoulder: 17"

Please note that this is an exceptionally small antique garment. Although the bust measures 30", the narrow, fixed construction makes it particularly difficult to draw over the shoulders. It is therefore likely to be best suited for display unless the wearer is very petite.

Condition:

Lovely antique condition considering its age, with general wear that reflects its previous life. There are a few small holes, several damaged or missing shell buttons and areas of age-related wear and fraying, all of which have been photographed as clearly as possible. Despite these points, the remarkable embroidery, beadwork and coin decoration remain beautifully impressive.

Materials: cotton/silk/other; exact compositions unknown

Era: believed circa 1880–1920

Origin: from our research possibly northeastern Afghanistan or northern Pakistan