Posted By: Bill H
Posted Date: Jan 07, 2010 (11:28 PM)
Jim, that's a kalaga, which is a Burmese tapestry for hanging, though possibly a new Thai or Indian interpretation. Kalaga motifs usually are based on episodes from the Burmese Ramayana (Epic of Prince Rama) or Jataka (life of the Buddha), with costuming usually reflecting that of traditional Burmese dance. In thinking yours might be Thai or Indian, both countries developed cottage industries in kalaga-making during and after the Vietnam War era, when kalaga collecting hit its stride. Also the colors in yours look to be a bit duller than typically seen on Burmese originals, but exposure to sunlight could be the culprit. Here are images of a couple of early 20th century kalagas I collected in Rangoon during the 1980's.
Best regards,
Bill H.
