• ISBN13: 9789385285530
• Binding: Hardcover
• Subject: Fashion & Textile
• Publisher: Niyogi Books
• Publisher Imprint: Niyogi Books
• Publication Date: September 16, 2017
• Pages: 252
• Original Price: INR 2950.0
• Language: English
• Edition: N/A
• Item Weight: 1540 grams
• BISAC Subject(s): Needlework / Embroidery

Chikankari is one of the finest traditional embroideries of India, a symbol of Lucknawi culture and elegant courts of the nawabs of Awadh. Chikankari appeared in Lucknow in the late 18th century and its exquisite aesthetic and craftsmanship have sustained the tradition to this day, through changing patronage and market trends. Chikankari is not just about embroidery. Its legendary finesse is based on a creative blend of delicate embroidery with very fine dressmaking and sewing techniques. This beautifully illustrated book showcases unknown gems from personal and public collections and brings to life the history of this unique craft tradition. The various chapters describe the mysterious origins of the craft, the range of costumes, the inspirations behind its motifs, the time-honoured elaborate production process and the bewildering array of stitches that raised this craft to a truly exceptional art form.

Born in Italy, Paola Manfredi has lived and worked in India for over thirty years. With a background in ethnology, she is passionate about textiles and deeply interested in the history of textile exchanges between East and West. Combining scholarly learning with approachability, she has worked with communities to promote the excellence of South Asian craftsmanship, particularly in Aary, Chikankari from Lucknow, and Nakshi Kantha from East Bengal (today Bangladesh). Manfredi is associated with a number of international organizations involved with textiles, crafts development and conservation. Her work has been shown in exclusive exhibitions in India and abroad.