ADT - Tourisme en Alsace

"Dream of Cashmere, Cashmeres of dream "
The Shawls Cashmere printed in Alsace in 19th century
From November 13th 2009 to October 31st 2010

If in Europe the shawl cashmere is a purely feminine accessory, in India, its country of origin, it is reserved for men, who wear it as a belt or a turban. Woven in Kashmir since the 15th century from a fine, short flossy under-wool of a goat living in the elevated region of Tibet the cashmere shawl mostly is rectangular. Its décor is constituted by a plain centre finished on both sides by borders which are decorated with the boteh, the Indian name for the paisley design.

The real origin of this pattern is not known. Some people think that this pattern is a tear of Buddha, a pine cone or a drop. Others think that it could be an interpretation of an stylized pink or at least would have a link with the floral world: because Boteh in Persian means Bouquet of flowers.

In France the cashmere shawl owes its fame to Napoleons Egyptian campaign in 1798. His officers brought it to France. From this time on the shawl was an important element of the feminine fashion for more than 70 years as well as a social status symbol.

In France the cashmere shawl owes its fame to Napoleons Egyptian campaign in 1798. His officers brought it to France. From this time on the shawl was an important element of the feminine fashion for more than 70 years as well as a social status symbol.

Practical Information

Musée de l'Impression sur Etoffes
14, rue Jean-Jacques Henner - BP 1468 - 68072 MULHOUSE cedex
Tél : 03 89 46 83 00 - Fax : 03 89 46 83 10
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www.musee-impression.com