Pakistani Ralli or Embroidered Quilt

Stripes in every color the dye pot allowed, and then some.

This ralli, or embroidered quilt, comes from the Swat Valley, Pakistan, and was made in cotton in the 20th century. Rallis are commonly pieced and stitched in South Asian homes and used as bedding or covers. The surface is covered in narrow vertical bands in red, orange, blue, green and black. Small stitched dashes and zigzags run within the bands, giving the field a rhythmic, vibrating look. The edges have a darker binding.

About 77 by 60 inches. A bed, a wall or a sofa will take it happily.