U Sein Myint Burmese Dragon Tapestry / Kalagas, Mandalay Myanmar

 

Yes, that world famous tapestry artist, Sein Myint.  Kalagas – or embroidered Burmese tapestries – have been around since the mid-1700s.  Kalagas were typically seen on temple walls, in palaces and monasteries.   The designs reflect the culture, traditions and mythology . . . as the Burmese Dragon does in this tapestry.

 

Sein Myint is recognized as a master of this almost-vanished art of Myanmar tapestries.  Many of the tapestries –  hand made in his Mandalay workshop –  are shipped to monasteries, museums and private collectors worldwide.  As he said in 2006:  “We are committed to making beautiful tapestries.”   Yes indeed.

 

Sein Myint – a UNESCO National Heritage artist – has also revived the technique of “golden thread sewing” (aka shwe gyi do) where gold thread and jewels are used.

 

This tapestry is one of his.  Produced in the early 2000s, it was made for a private collector and admirer.  I recently acquired it in Hawaii and am thrilled to have it part of my collection.  Notice the use of gold, green and silver threads,  the ample use of sequins, and the placement of half-pearls.  The relief effect created by stuffing backing behind the dragon provides a substantial dimensional effect.  Stunning.

 

I have added the metal rod with finial ends and the red cord with tassles.  A simple sleeve was created for the tapestry so you can easily mount the tapestry however you wish.

 

For the Serious Collector.