The traditional Serbian towel (peškir) is a centuries-old fundamental textile of everyday and festive culture. Its raw material is mostly cotton or linen fabric, and its characteristic decoration is needle-painted embroidery. Its world of motifs is characterised by floral ornamentation and human depiction that vary by region. It fulfilled both decorative and gifting functions at weddings and family celebrations.

In Serbian folk tradition, it also functioned as a status symbol and formed an integral part of the bridal dowry. Furthermore, it received a ritual role in church ceremonies, including the adornment of iconostases.