Intangible Cultural Heritage
The art of embroidery in Palestine, practices, skills, knowledge and rituals
The art of traditional embroidery is widespread in Palestine Originally made and worn in rural areas the practice is now common in all of Palestine and among members of the diaspora Womens village clothing usually consists of a long dress trousers a jacket a headdress and a veil Each of these garments is embroidered with a variety of symbols including birds trees and flowers The choice of colours and designs indicates the womans regional identity and marital and economic status On the main garment the loosefitting dress called a thob the chest sleeves and cuffs are covered with embroidery Embroidered vertical panels run down the dress from the waist The embroidery is sewn with silk thread on wool linen or cotton Embroidery is a social and intergenerational practice as women gather in each others homes to practise embroidery and sewing often with their daughters Many women embroider as a hobby and some produce and sell embroidered pieces to supplement their familys income either on their own or in collaboration with other women These groups gather in each others homes or in community centres where they may also market their work The practice is transmitted from mother to daughter and through formal training courses
Palestine