Kalagas - Burmese Embroidered Tapestries

Streaming video - 2015

Intended to provide a complete and permanent record of surviving traditions and skills in textiles and crafts, the Ends of the Earth unique series show the processes in full, in detail and with all the clarity and colour made possible by modern video cameras. In many ways they are better than being there - pausing and replaying gives the possibility of checking again where the quickness of the hands has eluded or deceived the eye. The padded embroideries of Burma are unique. Their combination of legendary figures and animals, sequins, stones and mirrors create hangings unlike any others. Although Burma has been largely inaccessible for almost 50 years families continue to work on producing Kalagas of high quality. This film shows the proces...s of producing Kalagas in the Mandalay area. Filmed in Mandalay. Contents: The whole process of creating these ornate embroideries including designs, sewing and the making of the sequins, glass stones and metalled thread. Also the making of the costumes for Burmese puppets. more