Sleeveless coat

NameCoat

Place madeMirdita, Albania, Europe

MediumWool, cotton

DimensionsOverall: 41 9/16 x 13 3/16 in. (105.5 x 33.5 cm)

Credit LineGift of David B. and Bonnie Naifeh Smith

Object numberA.2011.33.4

DescriptionLong off-white sleeveless, collarless coat with open front which crosses at lower half. The lower edges and all seams trimmed in black wool braiding. The top half of the coat is heavily couched and embroidered, especially around the top of the front opening, under the sleeves and across the upper back. The front opening is decorated in a wide band on each side, mostly in red with black and orange, as well as touches of white, green and hot pink. The arm openings are also trimmed in deep red with gray, white and orange. Under the arms around the slightly shaped side waist is another large area of decoration, with black ornamented triangles nearly touching the front opening and at the back center. At the center back a large, geometric four-limbed from with a "nearly triangular head." Vertical strips are located behind the armholes, finished with inward pointing triangles at bottom. The large geometric forms are filled with small, multicolored floral couching and embroidery.