jinani (Shoes)

The conditions in this area, unlike most parts of India, necessitate strong shoes. The ground is hard, sandy and desert-like. This type of shoe molds to the foot and lasts for years. The style of the shoe is; pointed toes, slip-on, raised tongue and back is generally recognized as a Muslim type. It shows the influence of close association of Rajasthan with the Muslim centres of power over the past 500 years. Although Rajasthan is mostly Hindu, a unique mixture of Muslim and Hindu cultures is still evident in many aspects of life and material culture.

worn by women

Pair of women's cowhide shoes (a-b) with soles made of multi-layered light brown leather sewn together. Pink dyed leather upper with multi-coloured cotton embroidery on toe area, in radiating V-shaped pattern. Leather edging is fastened by off-white stitches. A triangular piece of leather with one edge toothed is attached at the top edge of the upper. Multi-layered sole is glued.