Antique assuit shawl dating to the late 1910s to mid 1920s. Assuit (also known as tulle-bi-telli or Asyut where it was made) is a traditional Egyptian technique of weaving small strips of hammered metal into a cotton mesh base to create complex designs and patterns. This time consuming and highly skilled technique dates back to the 18th century, but had a height in popularity towards the late 1910s and into the 1920s, especially after 1922 when King Tutankhamen's Tomb was discovered which led to the explosion of Egyptian revival and Egyptomania. Smaller examples of these shawls were made en masse for the tourist trade and for western export, and they became extremely fashionable. Larger examples such as this one are much, much more rare to find and were reserved for the wealthiest elite, as these monumentally sized pieces took years to make and were extremely expensive. Very few have survived, especially in excellent wearable condition, due to the delicate nature of the material and the fact that very few were made as few individuals could afford such luxury. 

This shawl is incredibly stunning and boasts over 2 pounds of metalwork. The design features a large central diamond full of geometrically stylized images including camels and foliage. Either end of the central design is densely woven with solid smaller diamonds creating a fantastic almost scale-like effect, and finished with a horizontal row of more stylized camels at either end of the shawl. The metal detailing shines beautifully, catching the light with movement. An incredibly rare and special piece that can be styled in a multitude of ways, and a perfect piece for a serious collector. 

Excellent condition. Freshly washed, which helped to lighten and remove tarnish from the metal. Some subtle minor tarnish remains in a few areas, and a couple very small spots on the mesh, largest less than half an inch, all of which gets entirely lost in the drape when worn. Presents beautifully.

Measurements:

Length 82 in

Width 36 in

For reference, Ruby measures 32/24/33 and is 5'8".