Algerian woman’s ceremonial outfit
These garments, typical of Algerian Jewish women until the early 20th century, show the influence of territorial conquests, immigration, regime changes, and commerce on clothing. Such cultural influences are apparent in the rich metal-thread embroidery and its motifs, which originated in Spain, Morocco, and the Ottoman Empire.
The outfit consists of a sleeveless dress, a sash, and a jacket worn underneath the dress. Interestingly, the densely embroidered front of the jacket is concealed, with only the sleeves showing. This indicates the importance that was accorded to beauty, even when hidden.
Dress
Silk, gilt metal-cord embroidery
Jacket
Silk, gilt metal-cord embroidery
Sash
Silk, gilt metal threads
Gift of Annie Teboul, Nice, in memory of Aziza Narboni née Souto
Lent by Kibbutz Regavim
Gift of Baroness Alix de Rothschild, Paris
B02.1336, L-B81.0016, B72.0737
Beauty and Sanctity: the Israel Museum at 40. A Series of Exhibitions Celebrating the 40th Anniversary of the Israel Museum, Jerusalem, Zalmona, Yigal, 2006
Juhasz, Esther (ed.), The Jewish Wardrobe from the Collection of The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, 5 Continents Editions, Milan and The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, 2012
Sacred Beauty: Treasures of Judaica and Jewish Ethnography, Israel Museum, Jerusalem, 3/11/2005 - 1/21/2006
