Author Description

Textiles, Crafts and Customs of Burma's Women World (1910) documents the travels of a German couple researching Burma's tribal women in 1910-1911. Published in 1922 as a complement to scientific articles with the purpose of making available unique photographic material it has long remained obscure. Because of the early period during which the photographs were taken they offer a view of the authentic styles of dressing and textiles not yet influenced by large-scale "modernization". The Schermans paid special attention to this modernizing trend and to migrations. This study comprises illustrated descriptions of Burmese, Shan, Palaung, Karen, Kachin, Chin, Naga and Lishaw women's dress. It offers insights in some other aspects of the migrations and of the material cultures of these tribes such as paper-making, livelihood and various customs. There is also material on religious practices, illustrated with photographs. An addendum discusses a few typical women's songs.