“Gargush” / “karkush mizahhar” – a traditional headdress (hood) worn by Jewish women in Yemen on festive occasions, such as weddings and holidays. [Sana’a, Yemen, late 19th century].
Brocade silk, cotton and velvet; silver chains and ornaments; metal threads; gilt silver filigree plaques and pendants; “Maria Theresa” coins, some gilt; Ottoman coins; glass beads.
The back of the headdress is adorned with twenty-four 18th century “Maria Theresa Thaler” silver coins, arranged in two vertical rows, some gilt. As typical in Yemenite adornment, the outward-facing side of the coins displays the imperial double-headed eagle.
The upper portion is decorated with gilt silver plaques, some executed in filigree, several set with tiny glass beads. A silver ornament band is sewn along the forehead area. Along the edge of the fabric hang silver chains with silver beads, terminating in silver ornaments and two small 19th-century Ottoman coins. Button and loop closure at front.
Length: approx. 55 cm (approx. 60 cm including chains). Width: approx. 28 cm. Overall good condition. Some glass beads missing. Some unraveling.
