Articles, reports & dispatches.
Long-form scholarship and short news from the HALI editorial desk — published continuously between the four print quarterlies.
The Textile Museum's centenary exhibition highlights a remarkable historic carpet
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
Historic Vrindavani Vastra returns to Assam after more than a century
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
Pamiri Tajik bridal veils: The history and meaning of rubands and chashmbands
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
Ben Evans · 10 min
Highlights from London’s Islamic & Indian Art Auctions
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…
The Pip Rau Collection at Olympia Auctions
The Pip Rau collection of ikats, embroideries and costumes, auctioned at Olympia in London from 3 February–1 March , achieved outstanding results, attracting strong interest both locally and globally. Comprising 191 lots, this sale was dedicated to the late dealer and…
