Burqa with Footed Trousers - Unknown Afghanistan Artisan, c. 1850In 19th-century Iran and Afghanista

Burqa with Footed Trousers - Unknown Afghanistan Artisan, c. 1850

In 19th-century Iran and Afghanistan, Muslim women were usually fully veiled when they went out in public. They wore an outer layer over their indoor clothing and covered their faces. In Iran, this was often a sheet of dark blue or black textile (chador) worn with a white face-veil (ru-band) attached separately. This white cotton burqa from Afghanistan however, combines both elements. It has embroidered openwork over the eyes. Women would have worn the burqa with matching loose-footed trousers (chaqchur), with their skirts tucked inside. This outfit was worn with heeled slippers or boots. [x]