Snake Charmer Quilt - Neon Reflection

Vintage Snake Charmer Quilt from the nomadic Saami community of the Sindh region of Pakistan, with a style of hand stitched embroidery that is unique to this group. Snake charmers are not entertainers but rather they perform a religious function in the area that crosses between Hindu and Muslim (Sufi) religions. Traditionally, the snake charmers who would roam from village to village, and, sitting on their quilts, would play the been - a musical snake instrument. The stitches are said to represent different knids of snakes.

The cultural significance of the quilts runs deep as they are mostly made for wedding dowry and then used for bedcovers, furniture covers, floor rugs, wraps in cold weather and baby cradles. They are mentioned in old Urdu and Sufi poetry and are also gifted to the holy men of these areas.  

Neon coloured thread give this quilt its own special quality and energy. With its many different types of stitches, and distincitive embroidered patterns on a traditional black background as well as the centre motif, this piece is one of a kind.

The close hand stitiching provides weight to this quilt.

Bold statement piece in a room, on a bed or couch,  or framed on a wall.

Textile Book: Saami Quilts