This is a photograph of a hand-embroidered 'qabbeh', a design comprised of different patterns of embroidery that is used to decorate the 'breastplate' of a traditional Palestinian 'thob' or gown. The arch or 'mihrab' clearly can be seen. The primary embroidery pattern within the frame of the qabbeh is a 'qamr' or moon pattern. The little 'amulets' that depend from the main section of the 'breastplate' are nakleh or palms.
The palm is an extremely ancient symbol of life and indeed is a symbol of life, death and rebirth.
