Description
Paisley shawl, an example of cross cultural influences of Indian and Scottish design.
The traditional teardrop pattern of a Paisley shawl actually originated in Persia and India, but they became popular and fashionable in Europe – and synonymous with Paisley – in the 19th century. Their popularity grew further when Queen Victoria purchased some for herself. They fell out of popularity for a number of reasons, one of which was the introduction of the bustle into women’s fashion, which couldn’t accommodate a shawl.
© Heriot Watt University Archive and Museums Service
Museum referencePS/37