There’s a story behind every work of art, and behind every work of art is a creator with a story to tell. That creator’s story, whether happy or sad, every so often inspires yet another work of art, and as a result an entire movement comes to be.


Silk Kantha Stoles - $75 each - In Store Only

Nakshi Kantha, which means embroidered quilt, is the prominent textile art form of Bangladesh and West Bengal, India. Passed down through generations, it was popularized by a poem titled “Nakhi Kanthar Math” by Jasim Uddin. The poem, written about a woman named Rupa, captures her process of making an embroidered quilt and the story of her life reflected in the piece itself. Below is an excerpt from this beautiful poem:


Spreading the embroidered quilt
She works the livelong night,
As if the quilt her poet were
Of her bereaved plight.
Many a joy and many a sorrow
Is written in breast;
The story of Rupa's life is there,
Line by line expressed.

- Jasim Uddin, from "Nakhi Kanthar Math"

One-of-a-kind Kantha Quilts Hanging in Our Showroom
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JUST INTO THE SHOP, we have a collection of these stunning kanthas in the form of stoles and quilts that you have to stop in and see. Finely embroidered motifs, patterns, and spectacular color combinations sewn together from remnants of fine garments, the art of kantha is a great example of the extreme patience, detailed craftsmanship and resourcefulness of Indian village women.



Detail Of A Quilt Showing Linear Handstitching

Traditionally Kantha wraps, also known as enchanted wraps, were immersed in ritual and social customs and produced for the family. In the past they were crafted during leisure time or during the lazy days of rainy season and could take up to months or even years to finish. Initially made from sarees, where both the cloth and thread were repurposed, early kanthas had a white ground reinforced with red, blue and black embroidery; later yellow, green, pink and other colors were added.

Vintage Kantha Throw Quilt - $225 - In Store Exclusive

The running stitch, called kantha or gudri stitch, is the main stitch used to layout the designs and motifs before filling them in with cloth. In kanthas with a central motif, the center of the piece is first created then followed by corner designs and the remaining details. Swing by the showroom to preview our collection or call us at 1-866-804-1909 if you want to learn more about them.

Posted By: Angela (loftshoppe@gmail.com)

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