Highly Unusual Fabric Technique Used On Vintage Asian Clutch - PLEASE Help Identify!

[Coran Beck]

Hello all - I am going mad trying to figure out how this vintage clutch was created - I've never seen anything made in this manner before. It appears to be linen and silk - or a blend of the two? It's not embroidered: the figures, trees, etc. appear to be inset (they are not flush with the solid fabric of the body of the bag. Can anyone assist me please in identifying this style/technique ? I would greatly appreciate it - thanks!!

 

[denisebrain]

Hello Coran,

Great clutch!

This is tapestry—I'm not sure, but I think it appears handwoven. It reminds me a bit of this 17th century Chinese tapestry: https://www.metmuseum.org/blogs/now...ese-tapestry-textile-conservation-sticky-tape

 

[Coran Beck]

 

[Coran Beck]

Hi Maggie - you, um...rock! I'd not considered it might be a tapestry but thanks to you I was able to find this antique piece that is virtually identical to my clutch in style - I'd neglected to mention the sheen of the main body of the bag and it makes sense as this item I found is shot through with gold thread - I can't thank you enough!

 

[Marzilli_Vintage]

I think this is a Chinese kesi woven tapestry. Is the back accessible for a photo?

 

[Coran Beck]

I think this is a Chinese kesi woven tapestry. Is the back accessible for a photo?

Hello, thanks for responding - yes, I figured out last night that it is a kesi tapestry - I can't see the backside because it was made into a clutch, but I did a fair amount of research yesterday and determined that without question that is what it is. The similarity between mine and the round kesi tapestry piece I added - in particular the tress - is striking. Thanks again!