Description (Labels & Markings)
Typed label affixed to bag in which shawl was found reads '72'. This is in reference to Singer's original inventory. This label however is the wrong label for this item, it appears that Singer has mixed up the labels for 72 and 73.
Event Date
Author: Annie McKay

Description (Labels & Markings)
Handwritten label seen with shawl reads '[Burmese script] ARTIST HLA TIN 1320 638 = 1958 K.Y.T.Z.N.O. [Burmese script] (1958) 22.11.58 (DATED) bought @ Bagan 25 Nov. 2008. 'Magin' protective shawl for use on a patient during 'treatment' by a sorcerer. (N. F. Singer 11.12.08)'.
Event Date 22/11/1958
Author: Annie McKay

Description (Inscription)
Painted inscription seen on corner of shawl reads '22.11.58.'.
Event Date 22/11/1958
Author: Annie McKay

Description (Labels & Markings)
Hand written label seen with shawl reads '(11.12.08) The inside is the correct side. Hand stitched borders. 'Magic' shawl used to cover the shoulders of a patient receiving 'treatment' by the wise-man or sorcerer. Probably early 20th or even late 19th century - staining caused by medicines/herbs. Noel F. Singer'.
Event Date 11/12/2008
Author: Annie McKay

Description (Physical description)
"Magic" protective shawl painted with occult symbols and worn by a sorcerer when performing a ritual. There is possible insect damage to the shawl and the paint has ran due to water damage. The piece has been signed by the artist and dated.
The shawl is decorated with four large Buddha sat in the pose of enlightenment, in Bhumisparsa (Earth touching) Mudra. One hand is touching the ground and the other is placed upturned in their lap. They are wearing yellow or gold robes, and are the largest figures seen on the shawl. In addition to this there are numerous other spiritual beings painted onto the material, including demons and astrological figures. In the centre of the shawl there is a large green figure, possibly a naga dragon, which is intertwined within itself. Burmese script is seen accompanying these figures and what appear to be astrological tables are also painted on the material.
The possible insect damage is seen on one side of the cotton and is quite substantial with a large area missing. In addition to this there are holes seen along the folded lines of the cotton. Black ink has been spilt on the shawl.
Event Date 27/11/2017
Author: Annie McKay