Kalamkari Block-printed Fabric, Ueic (east India Company) – India, Machilipatnam, Early 19th Century

Circa 1800–1850
India – Andhra Pradesh
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Kalamkari prayer rug from India made for the Persian market between 1790 and 1850. Originating from Machilipatnam, Andhra Pradesh, this fabric bears the stamps of The United East India Company (UEIC), attesting to its export prior to 1850. Very fine cotton delicately block-printed using the wax-resist technique. The details are hand-painted with a reed pen, which gave its name to this type of piece, the Kalamkari. A finely detailed design of a large mihrab against a backdrop of Mughal-style flowers. Framed by cartouches depicting stylized cypress trees on illuminated borders. Calligraphic cartouches and minarets at the top of the canvas. Lining of Russian-printed cotton framed with indigo-dyed silk. The canvas has retained its original finish and the freshness of its colors on an immaculate white background. The only flaw to note is a few rust spots; no holes. Exceptional condition in terms of color and preservation.

Dimensions: 86 cm wide x 126 cm high.