Khalkha Mongolian men’s tunic

The tunic (halha: dēl, (дээл) is made from dark blue, patterned woven silk. In the middle of each circular pattern is a simplified shou ideogram, surrounded by stylised plant motifs. The lining is blueish grey artificial silk. The high collar, hem, and opening of the tunic, which fans out at the bottom, as well as the sleeves are edged with a triple border of brown silk fabric. The design on the inner edging features the occasional ‘endless knot’ motif. The button shanks and knotted button heads that were used to fasten the tunic below the right armpit are made from brown silk fabric. The tunic was held to the body at the waist with a belt (in Khalkha: büs), HFM_65.70.1 .