Shawl (Rebozo)

late 18th century

Not on view

Returned to lender

This work of art was on loan to the museum and has since been returned to its lender.

Rebozos are long rectangular shawls that were adapted by Mexican women from Spanish dress. On this rebozo, embroidered scenes depict Xochimilco, a favorite Mexico City park where citizens drifted in flower-covered boats among the famous ancient “floating gardens.” More uncommon are the scenes of interiors featuring upholstered European-style cabriole-legged chairs and tea services. These scenes depict the range of colonial society—from individuals sporting chic French-inspired fashions to liveried servants. A Jesuit priest appears in a number of vignettes. His long blue silk scarf wafting in the breeze, he enjoys the company of a lady, who in one scene removes and displays her own rebozo.

Artwork Details

Overview

Title: Shawl (Rebozo)
Date: late 18th century
Culture: Mexico
Medium: Silk embroidered with cotton, silk, and metal-wrapped thread
Dimensions: 30.5 x 93.7 in (77.5 x 238.1 cm)
Credit Line: Philadelphia Museum of Art, Gift of Mrs. George W. Childs Drexel, 1939
Curatorial Department: The American Wing