Collecting Indian ness

Portuguese style house Divar Island Goa

From 1200 to 1450, the Indian Ocean was the center of world trade. The world’s largest empires traded in this diverse network of merchants from all over Afro-Eurasia.

In Indian culture, muslin fabric was highly regarded for its softness, breathability, and delicate texture. It was considered a luxury fabric and was often associated with royalty and the elite. Muslin was particularly favored for its sheerness, as it allowed the wearer to stay cool in hot and humid climates while also giving a sense of elegance and grace.

Inlay - detail

Chikankari is known for its fine white threadwork on lightweight, sheer fabrics such as muslin, cotton, or chiffon. The embroidery typically consists of various stitches, including the famous "shadow work" technique, where the design is created by the play of light and shadow formed by the stitches on the reverse side of the fabric.