2nd Punjab Cavalry 1857-58

[Figure Mad]

Hi Guys

I hope there is someone who may be able to help me, I have just started the Latorre 2nd Punjab Cavalry Figure from the Indian Mutiny, what a beauty, it realy is superb. Now my problem lies with some of the research I have been trying to get hold of for one part of the figure.

Its the Poshteen Afghan Coat the figure is wearing, I have many images of this type of coat being worn and the different styles of jacket, e.g. sleeve length and coat length, I just can’t find any information on the patterning that the coats were embelished with, around the sleeve cuffs and around the outer edges of the coat.

I have many of the articles that were done on Bill Horan’s Ganadamak, I also have his books, these give some info (in image format) But the Poshteens worn in this and the original painting are of a slighly different style, so I am not sure the patterning is correct for the Indian mutiny.

Please help, this is such a scarcely publicised subject, I would like to know if anyone has any images of a jacket (front, Back and sleeve) or is there any museums in the UK with one of these coats on display.

Thanks guys in advance

Dave

 

[Blind Pew]

Sory Dave I've had a look at www.britishempire.co.uk but there was nothing to help there. I'll keep looking.
regards
A

 

[Kevindunne]

Dave,
The embellishments on the poshteens could take any form really...these were coats made by the wives etc of the wearers, purchased by Brits thru servants, or acquired in the local markets...not factory made. I believe the scroll work on the sleeves and down the button line were usually similar.Hope htis helps,
Kevin

 

[Figure Mad]

Hi Anthony

Yes I have spent a few hours on that site amazing images, just not enough detail.

Hi Kevin

Thanks very much for the info, I realised they were not factory items after reading the info on the Bitish Empire site, they were damn clever those Afghan women, it realy is hard to find a possible pattern to at least give me a base to follow, I will keep trying

Thanks

Dave

 

[KeithP]

Dave-

Pls be sure to show us some in process pics of this figgie. I like this one very much but other than the Latorre site, I have not seen one painted up.

Keith

 

[kim]

Hi Dave, I have looked through the books i have and have found a little information on the poahteen coat. I have sent an email to you If the pictures are not clear enough let me know and you can borrow the books. See Ya Kim.

 

[nagashino]

Hello Dave

Nice figure you have got there - I have it too and I agree it is very good.

On the poshteen, you could try the second-hand clothes shops/stalls down the Angel - the "afghan coat" was very popular in the 60s flower-power era and I can remember seeing them being worn, complete with the scroll embroidery. I don't suppose that would have changed much in a hundred-odd years. Bet you'll find one.

Looking forward to seeing this figure.

Best regards

Phil

 

[mahross]

Dave

Have you tried the Osprey book on the North West Frontier. It has some plates with Poshteen's in it. If you have not got it email me and i'll scan them in for you.

Ross