This dolman is made from a fine quality Indian shawl which is sewn to shape with beautifully symmetrical seaming and a well placed border. The theme is carried into the interior with an elaborate paisley patterned silk lining making this truly a luxury item. In the 1870s shawls lost popularity due to its immense size and the reducing expanse of skirts to help support them. Although some were retained as heirlooms, others were stitched into the more wieldy shape of the mantle.
