Burmese gilt-metal thread embroidered and applique panel (kalaga) depicting a peacock, c. 1900

At one time in Burma, the depiction of peacocks on this pictorial textile hanging known as a kalaga would have indicated a royal association. Peacocks symbolised the suns and were the national emblem of the Konbaung Kings (1752-1885). The use of their imagery was restricted to the royal family and the artists of the palace workshops; however, after the annexation of Burma by the British in 1885 and the exile of the royal family, designs and materials previously reserved for royalty became accessible to all. The extravagant style of kalaga appealed to both Burmese and royals alike and their popularity soared in the mid 19th Century. Our example was intended as a table cover, made for the European market.