The handkerchief in 'Othello' is one with an embroidery of strawberries on it. The handkerchief symbolizes different things to the different characters and plays an important role in the play.

Since the handkerchief was the first gift Desdemona received from Othello, she keeps it with her constantly as a symbol of Othello's love for her. Moreover, Othello himself had told her to keep the handkerchief with her. The handkerchief is first seen in Act 3 Scene 3, the scene containing the climax of the play where Iago begins to work directly on Othello, poisoning his mind. Iago has just left Othello alone after planting the idea that Desdemona is unfaithful in his mind. Othello was thinking over what has been said when Desdemona enters to tell him that the islanders of Cyprus are waiting for him to come to a dinner he has organized. Othello can only answer faintly; he...