Neck Cover or Ghuchi from India

This neck cover or Ghughi is from the North-West of India from the Saurashtra peninsular in Gujarat. There are three main styles of embroidery; the Kathipa domestic embroidery worked with flossed silk in an elongated chain stitch, geometric designs. The figurative work of the Kanbi and associated Farming Castes and the Ganesh Hangings.

This equine neck cover is made by the Ahir Borbecha, who are herders, a farming caste. It would have been made for celebrations such as weddings. It is a rich maroon with symbolic flower and bird decoration in black, yellow, green, white and red. Circular patterns are studded with mica to catch the bright sunshine. The head piece is particularly beautiful and unusual in its shape and ornamentation. Sadly three of the mica insets are missing. The green frill and piping gives it a unique vibrancy. The frill has been machine sown and may be a later addition to the original.

Circa 1960, from poll to neck 4’5” (134.5 cm). Long edge 5’9” (176 cm).

Provenance John Gillow, purchased for Private collection,1990’s approx value £150.