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Charkab (raincloak), 20th Century, Bhutan
Before the days of Gore-tex¨ or treated nylons, individuals depended upon the properties of natural textile materials as well as weaving and finishing techniques to provide protection from their environment. For this woolen charkab, literally 'rain covering,' from the Bumthang region of the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, it is the tightness of the weave and the water-resistant qualities of the wool itself that effectively protect the wearer from inclement weather. This charkab is constructed from yathra, a heavyweight woolen cloth that is unique to the Bumthang region. In construction, a single loom length of yathra is cut into thirds and joined at the selvages. Yethra is also used for seat and floor coverings and blankets. Today, as rainwear and plastic sheeting become increasingly available, even in the more remote areas of Bhutan, this type of woolen textile is typically used only by the older generation. The Textile Museum 1983.69.1, Ruth Lincoln Fisher Memorial Fund. Photo by Franko Khoury.
Each month we will highlight a different textile from the Museum's collection. |
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