COMPOSITION: 100% FINE merino wool
SIZE: 100 x 200 cm / 40 x 80 in approx.
THICKNESS: Very fine 
DETAILS: Without franges
WEIGHT:  266 g / 0.56 lb approx.

This Kani shawl is undoubtedly one of the closest versions to the famous hand-woven Kani shawls, although it is machine-woven. It is crafted from exceptionally fine merino wool, imparting unparalleled softness. Its traditional pattern stands out among many new creations on the market that do not do justice to the ancestral beauty of these magnificent shawls.

A shawl of this quality, if hand-woven, would require at least a year of work and could cost between $2,000 and $8,000 USD.

While these shawls represent a variation of the original and incomparable artworks, it is a precious opportunity to appreciate through these contemporary creations the remnants of this ancestral tradition.

Discover below the fascinating history of this shawl:

The origins of Kani shawls date back to Emperor Moghul Akbar, who adored and popularised them among royalty. After the decline of the Empire, their popularity was revived in France when Empress Josephine received one from Napoleon, inspiring complex designs in pure pashmina. For nearly a century, these shawls, adorned with natural motifs such as flowers and leaves, were highly prized by European elites.

Today, Kani shawls are still hand-woven in Kashmir by expert artisans. Each inch requires a day's work on the loom, and creating a shawl can take anywhere from one to five years, depending on its complexity. These unique pieces sell for between $2,000 and $8,000 USD on the international market, reflecting the skill and dedication required for their craftsmanship.

Thanks to modern technology, Jacquard looms can now replicate simplified versions of these shawls, making them more accessible while preserving the spirit of this centuries-old tradition.