Floor Coverings From Kashmir: Kaleen Carpets, Namdah, Gabba, Ari Rugs And Wagoo Mats (H.B)

This book focuses on the floor covering traditions of Kashmir, one of the two distinct regions that constitute the Union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Kashmir has historically been renowned as a producer of the world-renowned and esteemed pashmina shawl. However, the region also produces a variety of floor coverings that are an essential part of its households and its handicraft industry. The variety of floor coverings produced differs in design, mode of production, raw material used, and region of production. Kaleen-weaving is a long-standing tradition, dating back over 600 years, while floor coverings such as the wagoo mats trace their antiquity to the Indus Valley Civilisation. This book aims to provide a lasting narrative of the rich material culture of the Kashmir region. It identifies significant cultural units in design to showcase the age-old craft traditions in production that are integral to regional, tangible and intangible cultural practices. It enables an understanding of the cultural context of Kashmir, which has a strong influence on the production of floor coverings, lending a unique identity to its kaleen, which is often associated with Persian carpets. The author has used descriptive, thematic and ethnographic modes of analysis to highlight instances of carpet-weaving traditions that resonate distinctly with Kashmir. Well-researched and richly illustrated, the book will appeal to those interested in textiles, carpets and indigenous tangible and intangible cultures and craft traditions.