Editorial Reviews:
Product Description
India produces the finest dhurries in the world. They have a huge historical significance in India and the contemporary designs, colors are all inspired by the erstwhile Maharajas and kings who ruled India. The fabric ranges from silk, wool, cotton and fine yarn to a combination of all these. These lovely dhurries were woven all over the country, however, the dominant motifs were the large striped ones and the geometric designs with their staggered diamond patterns. The dhurrie could be used for a multitude of purposes. It could be used as a floor covering, bedding, rolled up bolster, a wall hanging, a worship accessory and for many more purposes. In India, the really coarse ones are even used to cover the animals. Fine dhurries with ornate designs were primarily woven in small rectangular sizes to be used on beds. The dhurries are cheaper than knotted piles and cooler under the feet. The weaving method used by the artisans is so simple that it seems to belie the richness of the finished product. There are just two beams, held in place by wooden or stone posts fixed into the ground. Across these beams the warp threads are stretched horizontally. On this simple and primitive loom are woven creations of rare delight. The only tool required is a fork or panja. The craftsman sits on a movable bench raised over the loom. This facilitates easy mobility especially when the width of the dhurrie is very large. While in earlier pieces colors such as black, maroon, yellow, indigo and blue were dominant, pastel shades have now become popular. Today, the dhurrie is equally at home in rustic villages, palaces, city salons and boardrooms. Transcending time and class, it is the quintessential democrat, gracing home of paupers, businesspersons and presidents. As one famous writer pointed out, Nothing could be more distinguished for the ball room, nothing simpler for a cottage.
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