very rare tunisian wedding cape known locally as a "Bakhnuq" and given as a gift by the groom to his bride. Although bought in Tunis in 1981 these fine capes are woven in the small towns of Cabes and Tataouine in the south east of Tunisia. They are always woven with red, blue or black fine wool and embroidered in cotton with designs which symbolise the bride's jewellery. Because of their importance to the family they seldom appear on the market but a very similar piece belonging to the world famous collector of kilims and flat weaves, Alistair McAlpine, appeared at Sotheby in London in 7th June, 2006, Lot 117, and sold for gp Pounds 720. It was classified as mid 20th century (photo available). This piece is older and has a more detailed design and tassels. It is in good condition. There are a few snags to the background cloth commensurate with its serious age. There is good information in the excellent book "North African Textiles" by Spring and Hudson with a map and on pages 34, 48, and 65. Reference 2828. Size 152 z 117cms. 5ft. x 3ft.10ins. Euros 385. sold thankyou.