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Vest

Place of OriginPunjab state, India, former kingdom of Nabha
Date1890-1920
PeriodPeriod of Maharaja Hira Singh (1871-1911)
CultureSikh
MaterialsSilk and metal-wrapped thread
DimensionsH. 18 1/8 in x W. 20 in, H. 47 cm x W. 51 cm
Credit LineGift of Mr. T.S. and Mrs. Jogi Khanna, in memory of grandfather Sardar Sahib Dr. Sewa Singh, chief minister (1906-1916) of Maharaja Hira Singh of Nabha State, Punjab, India
Object number2010.15.2
DepartmentSouth Asian Art
ClassificationsTextiles
On View
Not on view
More Information

Robes of this type, called chogha, are men’s outer garments and typically made of expensive materials like silk, wool, or fine cotton with brocaded or embroidered decoration and ornamental details. Popular in many parts of India, especially after the 1850s, a chogha would have been worn by a court notable. This ensemble’s original owner was first the royal physician and later chief minister at the Sikh kingdom of Nabha.

Both the robe and vest show signs of wear, and the vest has undergone significant alteration.