This Nakshi Kantha was crafted in Bengal during the late 19th century.
Kantha is a Bengali folk tradition of embroidering textiles using recycled cloth. This is a rare calligraphy Kantha which features the word "Ram" written in modern Bengali script over and over again. It references Ram or Rama who is one the most popular Hindu deities and likely intended as a mantra in "Puja" or prayer. It has a limited palette of various red and black threads on plain white cotton ground. The red and black threads were likely harvested and reused from old clothing. The limited palette is used to hypnotic effect by use of large blocks as well as patterning that appears almost three dimensional including one of the central rows which features a cube form.
In very good condition with some light staining on the back which is not visible from the front.
Size: 1'7" x 2'3" [48cm x 69cm]
Age: Late 19th Century
Country of Origin: Undivided Bengal
Type of Textile: Nakshi Kantha
Material: Cotton
Condition: Very good, very light staining on the back, not visible from the front
TX356
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