Friday, February 24, 2006

A royal presence in Ballarat



People have been bringing items for the rafoogars to darn. A gentleman brought precious gloves, worn by his father before him, and was thrilled to have them mended.

The rafoogars eyes really lit up when a large paisley shawl was brought for mending. This was a challenge worthy of their skills. Two days later the damage had been repaired, and there was virtually no trace to be found of the several small holes and one large tear.

The shawl's provenance made it even more exciting. It had been gifted by Queen Victoria to an unknown lady, subsequently spending time in (then) northern India before eventually making its way, from one owner to another, to Victoria.

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