Any idea where this cloth is from, and is it a shawl?

[Jen S]

I’ve got this pretty vintage maybe 70s (?) woven cotton shawl or small tablecloth, not sure where it’s from or what it is. Any help most appreciated!

 

[plousia]

It looks like typical Mexican or Guatemalan weaving to me. You get that type of fringe on rebozos (woven shawls), although usually they are rectangular and long and the fringe is only on either end.

 

[PescettiGommosi]

From the picture it seems folded in half longwise, as if it was in the shape of a "table runner" (long and narrow I mean). Is this the case or is it square-ish?

 

[Jen S]

Thanks, very helpful. It’s a rectangle but just barely. It’s about 40” x 39” with fringe on all sides.

 

[wyogems]

It gives me an Asian vibe. I think it is a throw blanket / rug

 

[Jen S]

Thanks. The weight and texture of the fabric doesn’t feel blanket-y to me, and the size is very small for a throw. Also, I’m curious why you say Asian, as I was inclined toward Mexican or South American.

 

[plousia]

Agreed, it looks like the artisanal weavings you find for sale in Mexico. My (Mexican) husband thinks it's Mexican or Guatemalan. He doesn't recognize the colours; every pueblo (indigenous people group) have their own colours and style, so he thinks it's likely Guatemalan. He's also not sure if it's a rebozo because they don't normally come in this shape.

I'll let you know if he has any other thoughts.

 

[wyogems]

It just reminds me of some of the fabric my step sister brought back from Bhutan. But without actually seeing it or holding it I can't say. It is probably Central or South American as others have said.

 

[Jen S]

Thanks so much, all this is very helpful!