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The basic run stitch done in a random way.
Kantha comprises of the simplest stitch in the language of embroidery - the running stitch. It is the way in which this stitch is used, in different arrangements, that forms the complex vocabulary of kantha.
Originally it was used to join layers of old saris, to make quilts. It was also used as a means of self expression by both urban and rural women in Bengal.
A Jaal or tessellation
The dorma or mat
the simple run arranged evenly
Jhod Bejhod or the paired and unpaired
The Golak Dhaga or maze
Simple Jhod or pairs
Jhinge Phool or flower of the ridge gourd (a vegetable)
Dhaan Chori or a stem of paddy
A Jaal or tessellation
The Golak Dhaga or maze
A Jaal or tessellation
The Sanskrit word kontha means 'rags.' One legend links their origins to Lord Buddha and his disciples, who used to cover themselves with garments made from discarded rags that were patched and sewn together. Rags displayed at Indian shrines or tied to tree limbs symbolize prayers and wards off the evil eye. The oldest extant kantha date from the early 1800s and is embroidered with blue, black and red threads that were unraveled from sari borders. Because they were salvaged from used garments that had been frequently laundered, the colors tend to be muted.
There are seven different types of kantha:
- Lep kantha are rectangular wraps heavily padded to make warm coverlets. The entire piece would be stitched in wavy, rippled designs over which simple embroidery was executed.
- Sujani kantha are rectangular pieces of cloth used as blankets or spreads on ceremonial occasions.
- Baiton kantha are square wraps used for covering books and other valuables. They are elaborately patterned with borders of several rows of colorful designs.
- Oaar kantha are rectangular pillow covers in simple designs with a decorative border sewn around the edges.
- Archilata kantha are small, rectangular covers for mirrors or toilet accessories with wide, colorful borders in assorted motifs.
- Durjani/thalia kantha are small rectangles with a central lotus design and embroidered borders. Three corners of the rectangle are folded inward to form a wallet.
- Rumal kantha are used as absorbent wipes or plate coverings. They also feature a central lotus with ornamented borders.
You can read about the
Kantha craftswomen by clicking here.
You can see
a finished kantha in our kantha section by clicking here.
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