Framed Burmese Kalaga Tapestry

This is a large, rectangular Burmese 'Kalaga' tapestry, a traditional form of heavily embroidered textile art. The piece features a vibrant red velvet or felt background adorned with intricate gold-toned metallic thread (shwe chi doe), sequins, and small inset glass beads or 'gemstones'. The composition is divided into two main panels: a smaller upper horizontal band and a larger primary lower section, both enclosed within ornate borders featuring stylized geometric and floral motifs. Centrally positioned in the lower panel is a multi-tiered pagoda structure, flanked by dynamic figures likely depicting scenes from the Ramayana or Buddhist Jataka tales. The figures are rendered in high relief (sequins and padding), a hallmark of the kalaga technique. The textile is housed in a simple, gold-toned metal or wood frame under glass. Regarding condition, there is notable white adhesive tape applied directly to the exterior of the glass in several places, which obscures and reflects light. The textile itself shows signs of age-appropriate fading and some potential loose threads or sequins, though the red pigment remains relatively saturated. The metallic threads exhibit a darkened patina. This piece likely dates from the mid-to-late 20th century and represents labor-intensive Burmese craftsmanship.

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