I have a tallit (prayer shawl) that will be used in my grandfather's great great granddaughter's wedding. I've been asked if it is originally from Europe (prior to 1900) as her parents would like to talk about this great great grandfather and describe the provenances of the tallit. Does anyone know how to 1) determine fabric without taking off a piece to burn as this would be impossible; 2) date the fabric; and date the design of such an item.

Congratulations on having such a treasured piece.

Picture?

Cindy, Please do not cut off a piece to burn it. 1. When did your great grandfather come to America. 2. If he was born here then when did is father come and is this his father "prayer shaw". You may have to do a little digging in the past to fine the answer you want. Finding out these question will help you to date it without burning it. Burn it will only tell you what the fabric might be.

post some pictures and maybe someone can help

Try talking to your oldest living relative and see if they know more about it.

Thanks for all of the ideas. I really should photograph it and put it on line. And yes, it really is a treasure to have such an heirloom. Don't worry, I WILL NOT burn any of it.

Grandpa came over here as an adult in 1904. There is no one left who would know about it. It was given to my father in 1948 when his father died as my dad was the oldest son. It was passed on to me when my dad died. I know it had to be used earlier in grandpa's life as he was buried in the one he used in his later years. I suspect it came with him from Europe, but I will have to investigate further.

post on a site that deals with antique textiles. There will be someone there who may know. The Pomegranat society is one place to start.