Historical information

Traditional Banjara (also known as Lambani) are an historically nomadic trading community originating in the Mewar region of Rajasthan, before migrating across central and southern India.
Tribal mirror belts combine bright upcycled fabrics, cowrie shells, coins and shisha mirrors.
Belts were originally designed to fasten heavy, wraparound skirts and hold nomadic tools or pouches.
The mirrors (also known as abhla) according to folklore reflect and deflect the "evil eye" (buri nazar) away from the wearer.

Physical description

Indian Banjara mirror belt embroidered on linen/cotton with stitches in red, yellow, green and orange.
Top panel has six shisha mirrors 30 mm diameter.
Three hanging pieces attached with bead covered string each with a shisha mirror 450 mm diameter.
Coiled string used to tie around body.