Berber Woman's Dress

Black cotton, pink thread, and a good deal of nerve.

Berber women of the Middle Atlas, Morocco, North Africa, wore dresses like this one, made in cotton in the 20th century. Embroidered dresses of the region are often worn for festive occasions as well as daily life. The black ground is worked in fuchsia and red thread, with diamond medallions across the chest and smaller motifs on the sleeves. Tiny round metal discs catch the light at the neck. Pale zigzag bands trim the cuffs.

Roughly 36 by 56 inches, sleeves spread. Hang it on a wall and let it wear the room.