Framed Vintage Kalaga Tapestry No.18 - Thagyamin Nat

This beautiful kalaga tapestry depicts Thagyamin, the highest ranking nat in traditional Burmese Buddhist belief. A nat is a god-like spirit believed to be either a human that was defied after death, or spirits of nature. This particular nat, Thagyamin, is considered as the King of Heaven, as well as the god of lightning, thunder and rain. He is the Burmese adaptation of the Hindu deities Indra. Here he is shown holding a yak-tail fly-whisk, known as a chowri or chamara, which is a symbol of his royal power and divine status.

A kalaga is an elaborate embroidered tapestry with applique elements made of various materials such as silk, wool and lace. Padded figures and animals are cut from cloth and embellished with metallic threads ('shwe-chi-doe'), sequins and beads. The overall art usually depicts a scene from Buddhism or Hinduism. They can take weeks or even months to complete due to their intricate nature.

The word 'kalaga' directly translates directly as curtain and they were originally made for royal palaces. To make one of these tapestries initially the cloth is stretched over a frame and then heavy metallic thread is sewn by hand. Any figures are then cut and attached to the background, and stuffed with cotton to add a relief element. Once the scene is completed the artist adds swirling patterns and sequins to fill the background. Each kalaga is unique to the artist and no two are the same.

If you would like further photographs, or have questions about any of our kalagas or other Artefacts and Treasures, please get in touch with us directly.

Dimensions of full frame: W 57cm x H 82cm

Origin: Thailand