Kalaga framed 13x13

Vintage Burmese Kalaga tapestry, probably made in the last half of the 20th century. A Kalaga is the traditional name for embroidered tapestries done by hand made in Myanmar/Burma. They are generally made from linen, silk, velvet or cotton and embellished with embroidery, beads, sequins and pearls.

Kalagas depict different stories, they can have a religious significance. Burma had both Buddhist and Hindu influences and these have been used on Kalagas. Kalagas have been made for about 150 years. Hindu Ramaya stories and Buddhist Jataka tales are often found on these tapestries. Kalagas also have auspicious animals, elephants, Burmese symols for purity, peacocks and many more.