Kashmiri craft is one of the most celebrated Asian crafts. The valley has so much to offer regarding textiles- Pashminas, Pherans, Kani weaving, etc.! These pieces are adorned with intricate needlework, hand embroidery, and motifs. One of these motifs is Paisley, which has a vital significance in Kashmiri craft.
The popularity of Paisley motif is evident. You can witness various Kashmiri clothes elegantly decorated with Paisley, like printed shirts, stoles, and dresses, but this design gained maximum popularity because of its use on Kashmiri shawls.
History of Paisley
The paisley design is one of fashion’s oldest patterns. It has been a popular motif in Asian countries for centuries. Originated in Iran, it got copied by Scottish weavers and became widely known as the Paisley motif.
In India, the first imagery depiction of this motif was found in the 11th century, in the Kashmir region. It gained popularity following imports of post–Mughal Empire versions of the design from India, especially in the form of Kashmiri shawls.
What Does this Classic Design Represent?
There had been a saying that people wore the pattern to represent elite social status. The design was initially woven onto silk clothing using silver and gold material.
It is a textile design using Buta (initially known as Buteh). Fashion scholars believe that the Buta motifs are inspired by the elements of nature, symbolizing the tree of life and the seed palm, reminding us of an appealing, exotic, and calm mood. The design is purported to derive from Indian fertility symbols, which have always been prevalent on an item of clothing.
Why is Paisley Famous?
Paisley was initially famous for shawls in silk and cotton. Later on, it started coming in wool also, which was inspired by the Asian shawls sent by British soldiers serving in India.
In the ancient period, the paisley shawl was considered the ‘must-have’ accessory, and it was one of the designs generally preferred on essential occasions. Paisley patterns and weavers yielded the intricate dynamic shapes in wool and silk clothes used in Britain.
At Urzuv, you will find a fine collection of dresses and drapes beautifully adorned with Paisley.
Kashmiri Shawls and Paisley Motifs
Paisley has become synonymous with being the design of Kashmiri shawls. The popular motif called Buta is intricately stitched on the original Kashmiri Shawls. These motifs can be elementary or highly ornate, depending on the pricing of the shawl.
Urzuv is Bringing Handcrafted Beauty to your Wardrobe.
Urzuv brings you Kashmir’s iconic Paisley pattern and delicate floral details in Aari work, offering elegance and craftsmanship. You don’t need to think about the quality of the product before purchasing. Visit Urzuv.com to purchase Kashmiri shawls, stoles, and dresses beautifully decorated with these Paisley patterns. If you appreciate the Kashmiri art, then drapes with Paisley motifs should be in your collection.