Let's take a closer look at an elegant arkhalig (women's outerwear) from the museum's Shusha Branch collection. 

 

An arkhalig was the most common type of women’s outerwear throughout Azerbaijan. It was made from termeh, taffeta, velvet, satin, moire, and brocade. Its name (arkha, kurek — back) suggests that arkhalig exposed the chest of women and at the same time completely covered their backs. Women's arkhalig differed in the shape of the neckline, collar, and hem. Karabakh clothing, which stands out for its cut and bright colors of fabrics, occupies a special place among the costumes of the ethnographic regions of Azerbaijan. The presented sample is made of termeh and decorated with golden braid and garagoz cord.

 

Arkhalig. Karabakh, Azerbaijan. Early 20th century. Termeh. Garagoz, lace. Azerbaijan National Carpet Museum collection