| Abstract: | Embroidery is undoubtedly of Oriental origin, and probably has existed since 3000 BC. India is said to be one of its original homes. Embroideries are mentioned in the vedas and the epics, and seen in Buddhist stupas and sculptures, Kushana sculptures, and Ajanta frescos. The art reflects the local tradition, and each region developed its distinctive styles: floral and natural motifs in Kashmir; phulkari ("flowering work") in the Punjab; the rumals on Chamba; kanbi in Kutch; the embroidery practised in Haryana villages and rural areas around Delhi; stitch embroideries on silk and cotton in Rajasthan; kasuti in Mysore; chikankari of northern India; kashida in Bihar; kantha embroidery and Dhaka stitch in Bengal; the embroidered borders of the cloth worn by women in Manipur; and Lamani and Banjara, the best known tribal embroidery work in India. Some embroidered items in India are kerchiefs, veils, scarves, and waist bands, and the typical products exclusively for Western use are church linen and neck-cloths. There are two categories of gold and silver embroideries: zardozi and kamdani. A closely allied form to embroidery is applique. Source of Abstract: Provided by Publisher |
