kichinger rongkhim (Wrap Skirt)
About this object
History of use
Worn at special occasions, such as feasts of merit and prayer rituals.
Narrative
Formerly owned by the family of Shilu Lal. Purchased by Dr. Oberoi in Tuensang, along with eleven other wrap skirts of similar design (see 1473/1 thru 1473/12).
Cultural context
ceremonial
Iconographic meaning
Cowrie shells signify bravery. The various colours in the bands indicate the clan to which the wearer belongs.
Specific techniques
Woven on a back strap loom.
Physical description
Rectangular, ceremonial skirt, or apron. The main body of the piece is made of black cotton textile which is bordered on both ends with narrow (3 cm) multicoloured, patterned, vertical stripes. The lower third of the garment consists of a finely-woven, horizontally striped, multicoloured textile, with many woven geometric motifs. A horizontal row of closely-spaced cowrie shells is affixed to the apron just above this patterned textile and extends almost all the way across the width of the garment. Three ‘rosettes’ of cowrie shells are spaced across the width of the garment above the row of shells. Many long strands of dark red glass and metallic cylindrical beads, interspersed with white seeds, are attached below the row of shells and hang freely to the bottom of the garment. Each strand of beads is finished with a tuft of wool, resembling a small tassel.
Categories
Materials
Cotton fibre Cowrie shell Jacob's tears seed? Tin metal Glass Wool fibre Dye