Uçkur (sash)
Turkey
Ottoman Empire
Early 18th century

In 18th-century Ottoman Turkey, an uçkur, or sash, was worn tied around the waist to hold up the baggy pants that were in style. Uçkur were embroidered at both ends and when worn, the decorated ends would be visible hanging down. The embroidery was done in fine double running and satin stitches.

In Ottoman society, preparations for a woman's wedding began early in her life. Female family members would begin embroidering items for her trousseau soon after her birth, and when she was old enough she too would sew items for her future married life. Much of her time would be devoted to embroidery, decorating everyday items such as towels, covers, shirts, and sashes (uçkur).

Plain weave, embroidery
Linen, silk
76 x 18 inches
The Textile Museum 1.2
Acquired by George Hewitt Myers in 1925

Reference Cited:
Krody, Sumru Belger, Flowers of Silk and Gold: Four Centuries of Ottoman Embroidery. Merrell Publishers Limited, 2000 London and The Textile Museum, Washington.

© 2005 THE TEXTILE MUSEUM