Bethlehem Thobe

The Bethlehem thobe is one of the most luxurious Palestinian dresses, often called the “Royal Thobe” (Malak). It features striped silk fabric and dense geometric and floral embroidery using qasaba couching and silk threads (especially orange). Key elements include the “taqsira” velvet jacket and the “shatweh” headdress adorned with coins and beads. Side panels (“banayiq”) include famous units such as the “mashrabiyya” and “clock” motifs.

SouthLate 19th - Early 20th Century

Story

Women spent long periods crafting its embroidery. It was preserved as a valuable family heirloom and worn in weddings and major occasions.

Embroidery

Bethlehem qasaba (talhimeh)
Banayiq side panels
Signature orange silk
Taqsira velvet jacket

Palestinian Thobe

Bethlehem Thobe

The Bethlehem thobe is one of the most luxurious Palestinian dresses, often called the “Royal Thobe” (Malak). It features striped silk fabric and dense geometric and floral embroidery using qasaba couching and silk threads (especially orange). Key elements include the “taqsira” velvet jacket and the “shatweh” headdress adorned with coins and beads. Side panels (“banayiq”) include famous units such as the “mashrabiyya” and “clock” motifs.

SouthLate 19th - Early 20th Century

Story

Women spent long periods crafting its embroidery. It was preserved as a valuable family heirloom and worn in weddings and major occasions.

Embroidery

Bethlehem qasaba (talhimeh)
Banayiq side panels
Signature orange silk
Taqsira velvet jacket