Welcome to our online store, where tradition and elegance meet in the timeless art of hand block printing. This exquisite craft, deeply rooted in the royal courts of India, combines history, culture and unparalleled artistry.
A tradition
Hand block printing dates back over two thousand years to ancient India. Once a symbol of luxury and sophistication, its elaborate patterns and vibrant colors adorned the garments of the nobility. One of the most famous historical figures to wear hand-printed fabrics was Queen Nur Jahan, wife of the Mughal Emperor Jahangir.
Known for her exquisite taste and influence on fashion, Nur Jahan was a great patron of the art and played a significant role in popularizing this technique in the Mughal court.
The heartland of hand block printing
Hand block printing flourished in the regions of Rajasthan, Jaipur and Gujarat, where talented artisans passed on their techniques through generations. Towns like Sanganer, Bagru and Pethapur became synonymous with this art. Each region developed its own style and motifs that reflected the local flora, fauna and cultural tradition.
In Sanganer, for example, the prints are known for their delicate lines and detailed patterns, which often feature flowers and symbolize the beauty of nature. Bagru, on the other hand, is characterized by earthy tones and geometric designs created with natural colors and a careful printing process.
The artistry
Making a hand-printed fabric is a laborious process that requires a lot of skill and patience. It starts with carving the designs onto wooden blocks - each one a work of art in itself, often taking days to complete. The carved blocks are dipped in natural dyes and stamped onto the fabric with great precision, piece by piece, color by color. This makes each piece unique, with slight variations that add to the charm and authenticity of this technique.
You can read more about the process of hand block printing here.
origin and development
The origin of hand block printing is believed to be from a time when textiles were decorated with natural colours and simple geometric patterns to create durable and aesthetic fabrics for both everyday wear and festive occasions. Initially, simple motifs such as circles, squares and lines were common. Over time, more complex designs and a wider variety of motifs were introduced, including flowers, animals and mythological figures.
Today, modern artisans are inspired by traditional motifs while incorporating modern designs. This mix of old and new keeps the art form alive and relevant in today's fashion world.
preservation of tradition
We proudly continue this ancient tradition by working with skilled artisans who have inherited this tradition from their ancestors. Our products are created with the same dedication and passion that once filled the magnificent halls of the palaces of India. filled .
By choosing our hand-printed fabrics, you are not only choosing a piece of history, but you are also supporting the artisans in keeping their incredible tradition alive.
Did you know?
Indian hand block printing has influenced textile art worldwide. The famous “Paisley” pattern, often associated with Persian art, has its origins in Indian block printing.
Discover our collection and become part of this story.