TEXTILES
India: Andhra Pradesh, Krishna, Balyalagudem
Moslem
Pardah (curtain)
1957
Plain weave; Printed, hand blocked; Resist dyed, batik; Painted; Resist dyed, mordant resist
Cotton; Kalamkari printed cloth; Vegetable dye (indigo)
2 yds. 25 3/4 in. x 1 yd. 13 in. (2.48 x 1.24 m)
Elizabeth Bayley Willis Collection, gift of Virginia and Prentice Bloedel
TC 58.1-551

This parda (door curtain) is one of several types of textiles produced in the Machulipatnam style of kalamkari. It was made in Balyalagudem, a neighboring village in 1956. The motif arrangement of a central mihrab, or prayer niche, clearly shows Persian influence. The mihrab contains a central cyprus tree filled with intricate floral arrangements. This organic quality is further heightened by the use of tendrils to surround and join the floral patterns. Tigers, deer and peacocks are also depicted in this densely patterned field. -- Label copy for Courtyard, Bazaar, Temple: Traditions of Textile Expression in India, Bellevue Art Museum, June 12, 1982 to July 25, 1982.