Long-form scholarship and short news from the HALI editorial desk — published continuously between the four print quarterlies.

Each week, our editors pick a rug or textile for its beauty, relevance, important and/or artistry

A carpet recently presented by The Textile Museum in its centenary exhibition is an illustration of the development of the museum's collection, its founder's expert eye and the journey of carpet design
Ben Evans · 2 min
More than a century after entering the British Museum's collection, a remarkable religious hanging depicting scenes from Krishna's life will return to its roots in Assam on temporary loan. Its cultural significance and intricate storytelling is explored
Ben Evans · 4 min
Bridal face coverings are a widespread tradition across Central Asia, but those of the Pamiri Tajik people are unique. Explore the construction, symbolism and cultural significance of the ruband and chashmband, distinctive expressions of the region's rich textile heritage

It was a busy week in London last week, as the spring sales of Islamic and Indian art delivered strong results across the board. The HALI team had the opportunity to preview the lots ahead of the auctions. Among the highlights were a rare 16th-century Cairene Ottoman rug that…