Embroidery sampler (chelliga/shelliga)

These detailed samplers demonstrate the artist's technical range. Here, floral designs, protective open-palm hand motifs (<em>khamsa</em>) and various patterns are embroidered using double-running stitches, straight stitches, and long-armed cross stitches with dyed silk thread. Young women from all social classes would learn these skills from a master craftswoman (<em>mu’allima</em>), who taught within her home. Upon the completion their studies, these professionally trained women would produce a sampler as a “diploma” testifying to their skills.