Handcrafted Indian Textiles-Tradition and Beyond

Handcrafted Indian textiles, steeped in tradition, are the living heritage of the glory of India. The decade spanning 1980-1990 witnessed a renaissance in the promotion and revival of techniques, some of which were in danger of becoming extinct. Warps and wefts underwent a transformation, with assorted weaves being combined to produce 'new from the old'. The hundred and forty outstanding textiles represented in this book, were selected from fifteen hundred, especially commissioned from master weavers and craftsmen all over the country during the same decade. Displayed at the Visvakarma series of exhibitions, their wide-ranging vocabulary of design, technical skill and aesthetic brilliance brook no rivalry. Featured under pigment-painted, dye-painted, printed and woven techniques, the book showcases various regions of production. The historical legacy, source of inspiration, achievements and shortcomings of each category are summed up with an informal, though analytical discussion. Written and edited by renowned names in textile design, this book is, indeed, a treasure for both the textile aficionado and designer.