Antique Assuit Shawl, 1920s

This beautiful antique Assuit shawl, dating to the 1920s, is a striking example of Egyptian-inspired Art Deco fashion, crafted from light-colored cotton and adorned with numerous silver plates arranged in a geometric pattern. The shawl reflects the cultural fascination with Egypt that swept through Europe and America following the discovery of Tutankhamun’s tomb in 1922, when travel to Egypt became a symbol of sophistication and worldly elegance.

Originating from Assiut, a city in central Egypt, these shawls quickly became status symbols, worn by fashionable women to evoke the exotic allure of the Nile. The metallic embellishments shimmer against the soft cotton base, creating a dramatic yet refined look that pairs beautifully with evening wear or flapper-era ensembles.

This piece is in good to very good condition, with only minor signs of age. Please note: decorative items shown in some images are not included; only the shawl is for sale.

Measurements: approx. 50 x 220 cm

This rare 1920s Assuit shawl is ideal for collectors of antique textiles, Egyptomania fashion, or museum-quality accessories, offering a glamorous glimpse into the interwar fascination with ancient cultures and modern design.