Gyal Stole (Ladakhi Sheep Wool + Merino Wool)

The design with the diagonal waves takes inspiration from the Ladakhi royal attire featuring Chinese brocades. In China, the same pattern called ‘Lishui’ represented the deep sea, and when combined with a central rock-like motif signified the ruler. Chinese brocades were sought-after luxury goods in the Silk Route trade.

The Gyal Stole design uses the five auspicious colors of the Ladakhi prayer flags – blue, white, yellow, red and green in the ‘Lishui’ pattern. The design is further made auspicious with the eternal knot motif – called ‘Palpi’, flanking the four corners of the body.

The motifs are rendered in extra weft technique, a first-of-its-kind in Ladakh. Further the design is framed with the traditional black and white warp rib stipes, as an homage to the original ingenuity of the master weavers of Ladakh as seen in the traditional textiles of Changthang – called ‘Challi’.

Sheep wool is sourced from the soft down hair of Changluk sheep of Ladakh, India. When blended with Merino wool, the stole attains a unique textural softness and lightness; till now unseen in homegrown Ladakhi wool textiles.

The yarns are mill-spun and dyed in Azo-free dyes. The stole is handwoven by women artisans of Ladakh.

Composition: 50% Ladakhi Sheep Wool, 50% Merino Wool

Size: 76 inches by 28 inches

Care and Maintenance: Dry clean only and warm iron

Colors may vary due to difference in lighting conditions indoors and outdoors during photography.