TWO EMBROIDERED PROCESSIONAL STANDARDS ('ALAM) BANNERS
Possibly Lucknow, North India, early 20th century

One of joined ecru satin silk, worked in metal thread, spangles and blue and white glass beads, framed by silver ribbons and tassels, the upper section with a floral grid, the lower section with the canopy and 'alam and Kotal of Hossein above his steed, the rider-less Zuljanah, announcing the news of the saint’s martyrdom, the borders with holy Shia names alternating in blue and white glass beads; and another, similar, in red satin silk, the lower section with a depiction of a multi-branched 'alam structure, each mounted, glazed and framed, 58.5cm x 28.5cm.