Hermès Indian Fantasies Scarf

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Description & history

An Hermès Indian Fantasies carré · design by Loïc Dubigeon, first edition 1985 · silk twill · water-green background and coral border · Tree of Life and Shekhawati frescoes · hand-rolled edges · original label present · 88 × 88 cm · grade B+.

Indian Fantasies is one of those carrés bought as much for the design as for the silk. Loïc Dubigeon transposes the wall paintings of Shekhawati, a region in northern Rajasthan where wealthy 19th-century Marwari merchants had the façades and courtyards of their havelis — fortified homes — covered in frescoes. First issued in 1985, the carré has been reissued several times since, a clear sign of its popularity among collectors.

At the centre, a majestic Tree of Life unfurls its branches in scrolling motifs, laden with luxuriant flowers and exuberant foliage — a symbol of creation and regeneration, found in both Hinduism and Buddhism. All around runs a frieze of scenes populated by horsemen, chariots, camels and palanquins. On closer inspection, there are even traces of the British presence, in the form of automobiles and trains, as well as the Rajput legend of Dhola Maru — the Indian Romeo and Juliet — seen fleeing on camelback.

This version comes in a particularly vivid palette: a luminous water-green background at the centre, a wide coral border framing the whole piece, and touches of pink, sky blue, ochre and beige bringing each scene to life. The silk twill gives the carré its sheen and drape, while the edges are hand-rolled — this rolled and hand-stitched finish creates the small raised edge characteristic of the house's carrés.

Good condition, grade B+ — hand-rolled edges in good condition, with slight signs of previous use. No stains, no pulled threads, no holes, no odour, and no major flaws to report; the item is documented in photographs. The original label is present. Delivered in carefully prepared RARR Vintage packaging, with dust bag and certificate of authenticity.