Golden Threads: Dress from Saudi Arabia

In 1932, Abdulaziz bin Abdul Rahman Al Saud founded the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. During his reign, King Abdulaziz followed the long-standing Islamic tradition of rulers presenting fine garments as gifts, including to foreign visitors. He gave the colourful and voluminous thobes (outer dresses) featured in this display to the daughter of the British Ambassador to Saudi Arabia in 1942 and 1952. The dresses are all embellished with metal-wrapped thread, adding a golden shimmer.

A short film has been made to accompany the display.  Watch to learn more about the 1940s Bridal Thobes in the V&A collection: Traditional Saudi Arabian Dress Explained | 1940s Bridal Thobes

This display is part of the V&A’s Jameel Programme, celebrating 20 years of The Jameel Gallery with Community Jameel.