Palampour Textile

Palampores are decorative Indian cotton textiles that were inked with block prints and pens to create their design. Most of these textiles are directional and either depict lush vegetation surrounding a central tree or flower or, like this piece, convey persianate patterns within architectural elements. This piece traces a central ‘mihrab’ niche flanked by architectural pillars and columns of floral tracery. The top is flanked by finials of the type found atop an Indian mosque or Mughal fortress. The contrast between such concrete design elements and more ethereal motifs such as paisleys and shrubs conveys a unique sense of luxury and wonder.