20th century Manila shawl

Manila shawl from the 20th century.
White embroidered silk crepe.
Measurements: 122 x 118 cm.
Traditional garment among the ladies of the high society, the Manila shawl took its name from the capital of the former Spanish colony of the Philippines, where the Spanish galleons of the 16th century loaded the products brought from the East for their exportation to Europe and America. It originated in China, where they were made of silk and embroidered by hand. The first shawls featured oriental decorations, such as dragons, bamboos and pagodas. However, these motifs were soon replaced by European ones, mainly Western flowers and birds. In fact, the fringes were added as a result of Spanish influence. Traditionally, it had to cover the entire back and reach the end of each arm, hence its large dimensions. They were always particularly costly pieces, due to the meticulous work involved in the fringing and embroidery.