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Page 14 - HAND EMBROIDERY ARTISAN_TT
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    Handicrafts & Carpets                                   Related Theory for Exercise 1.1.04
           Hand Embroidery Artisan - Introduction to Hand Embroidery

           Concept and history of shawl embroidery

           Objectives: At the end of this lesson you shall be able to
           •  state the concept of shawl embroidery
           •  brief history of shawl embroidery.

           Shawl embroidery is a craft that has been practiced   History of shawl embroidery
           for  centuries  in  India  and  Kashmir. The  art  of  shawl   The enchanting world of Kashmiri shawl embroidery is
           embroidery  involves  creating  intricate  patterns and   a narrative woven through the annals of time. Its origins
           designs on shawls using a variety of techniques and   stretch  back  centuries,  finding  their  roots  in  the  rich
           materials.                                           cultural tapestry of Kashmir.
           Origins
                                                                In this breathtaking landscape, where nature’s beauty
           Kashmiri shawls                                      knows no bounds, aesthetics and artistry have, indeed,
           The earliest mention of Kashmiri shawls dates back to   been there for generations.
           the 11th century CE. They were originally made to protect   A Muslim shawl-making family shown in Pashmina shawl
           the weavers from the cold weather of Kashmir.        manufactory, 1867, chromolith., William Simpson.
           Kalamkari                                            At the heart of this timeless tale are the exquisite shawls,
                                                                known as ‘Pashmina shawls. These shawls have been
           The Kalamkari technique originated in ancient India and   there as integral parts of Kashmiri heritage. These are,
           Persia, and has been used for over 3,000 years. It was   hence, more than just clothing.
           originally used to make religious textiles and temple
           hangings.                                            In fact, for the locals, they are the embodiment of a culture

           Influences                                           where artistry thrives in every corner. Their journey, from
                                                                raw wool to luxurious drapery, is a saga that pays homage
           Mughal and persian cultures                          to human skill and unfaltering patience.
           The  design  and  embroidery  techniques  of Kashmiri   The valley of Kashmir, surrounded by the grandeur of
           shawls were influenced by Mughal and Persian cultures.   the Himalayas, boasts an atmosphere where creativity
           European cultures                                    thrives in harmony with the serene natural beauty. It’s a
                                                                land where artistry is not a mere pastime but a way of
           European traders exported Kashmiri shawls globally, and   life, deeply interwoven with the region’s identity. In this
           local drawloom weavers in Europe replicated the shawls.   enchanting realm, the story of shawl embroidery is a

           Significance                                         testament to the enduring spirit of craftsmanship.
           Cultural significance                                With each intricate stitch, these shawls carry forward
                                                                the legacy of a culture that has preserved the art of
           Shawls have been an integral part of Indian cultural   embroidery with love and dedication.
           identity for centuries.
                                                                They hold within them the whispers of artisans who,
           Symbolism                                            generation after generation, have perfected the delicate
           In many cultures, shawls are given as gifts to symbolize   craft.
           love, respect, or friendship.                        The  roots  of  Kashmiri  shawl  embroidery  run  deep,

           Luxury                                               nourished by the fertile soil of tradition and the pure
                                                                waters of artistic passion. Hence, this art is not just an
           Kashmiri  shawls  are  highly  prized  by  collectors  and   adornment but a piece of history that continues to unfurl
           enthusiasts for their fine quality and intricate designs.   its elegance across time, connecting us to a heritage as
                                                                timeless as the art itself.

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