Framed Beadwork Tapestry (Toran), India (1426LBL)

Description

An Indian toran or bandhanwar is a beadwork tapestry traditionally placed at home doorways and thresholds and symbolize warmth, positivity, and protection. Their origin lies in ancient Hindu religious texts which are part of the Vedas, the vast genre of Indian literature that includes myths, legends, traditional philosophy, lore and rituals (circa 1500-1000 BC). They are an integral part of Indian home decor not just for decorative purposes, but to invite good luck and blessings to the home. They are also used for weddings, processions, religious festivals, family milestones and other important events. As a source of cultural pride and identity, different regions create unique styles and designs using diverse textiles that may also include silk with mirror inlays to add sparkle to the variegated color mix. Especially popular in Gujarat, torans are used to attract Lakshmi, the ideal Hindu bride and the goddess of wealth, good fortune, fertility and abundance. Devotees ask her to bless the family and bring prosperity, fertility and birth of children. Torans there are often used in marriage ceremonies and are part of the dowry. Their stylized motifs reflect religious, legendary, and genre subjects, and illustrations of Hindu gods. This vintage toran contains the Tree of Life that connects the earth, ancestors and heavenly deities and symbolizes the cycle of birth, death, and rebirth and spiritual growth, enlightenment, divine wisdom. The monkey refers to the Monkey God Hanuman representing strength, courage, devotion and self-discipline. The horse represents universal life energy prāṇa and reflects power, loyalty, and respect. The two peacocks on the bottom symbolize beauty and grace and are associated with many Hindu deities, especially Lakshmi. It is finely mounted in a deep, linen lined wood frame.