Indian Export Embroidery
Late 18th c

I have four pieces of this delightful hand embroidered fine cotton, worked in Gujerat, Western India for export to Eurpope. I would imagine because of the lightness of the cotton, these pieces were part of a woman's gown, perhaps a round gown, which for some reason was later cut up. These light washable cottons were highly sought after during the seventeeth and eighteenth centuries. Cambay was the main city where this type of embroidery was produced, and is often called Cambay work. Similar embroidery was also produced in Patan and Surat, also in Gujerat.

 

Description

Of fine Indian hand woven muslin embroidered with a repeat tamboured stylised motif of four petalled crimson flowers and buds with dark green stalk and leaves,

1/2 -  horizontal lengths 7 1/2 x 32 in; 18 x 82 cm. £150 each.

3/4 - 2 semi circular sections 19 x 12 in; 49 x 30 cm widest. To be sold together £ 275

The motifs 2 1/4 in; 6 cm

 

Condition

Clean and fresh.

1. First length has a little hole to centre near the beautifully hand stitched vertical seam. There is a 1 1/2 in; 4 cm tear to the bottom of the piece near the right hand side. There are stitch holes along top and bottom where the piece has been turned over and sewn.

2.  Little areas of slighjt wear here and there throughout.  There are stitch holes along top and bottom where the piece has been turned over and sewn.

3.  Semi circular piece. Areas of slight wear to middle right side.

4. Quite a few slits and hole to the top. If you cannot see this in photo, do ask for more.