Patola Panel -Details

The tradition of double ikat weaving in Patan, Gujarat is known as the patola and at the time of the Visvakarma commissions, was observed to have continued its use of materials, technical skills and repertory of designs from an earlier period. Historically imported to Southeast Asia, especially Indonesia, as ritual cloths, their saree versions are known to have become popular among wealthy Gujaratis in due course. This textile is noteworthy for its size, extending the weaving of double ikat weaving in Patan known as the patola, towards a large width unexplored before. In the process, it becomes an art work beyond its original functional uses as objects of worship or the apparel. The pattern in the field is called chabadi bhat or basket pattern, with the central motif of a diapered medallion with an octagonal flower.

Conch or sankha is blown traditionally as a good omen in India. It is believed that wherever the sound travels, such places will be blessed. Motifs in textile development have a strong rootedness with the local geography. The swathes of golden beach sand on which conches are washed up is an abiding scene of Odisha landscape. It is executed perfectly in the interlacing of the resist dyed yarns in both warp and weft.