The art of carpet weaving was originally brought to India by the Mughals, and flourished under Akbar’s rule. This led to the growth of the carpet industry in the country and it becoming popular with the colonial forces that followed in the later centuries. The Indian carpet industry now is a rapidly flourishing one, renowned throughout the world for its intricate designs, workmanship and use of colors. The carpet weaver has grown in stature as an artist, as he can create poetry through his craft.
Materials
Wool has been the basic material for making carpets and the highest quality wool always comes from Kashmir. Like other ancient arts, until the 20th century, the most important source of color for carpets was nature. Madder, which can be found almost everywhere, provided the carpet weaver with almost all the essential colors needed. Its roots were a rich source of reds and pinks, the leaves and grass provided the greens, and the browns were derived from the kiker tree.
Process
Pattern is as important in carpet weaving as coloring is. When carpet weaving was introduced in India, the fusion of Indian aesthetics with Persian artistry freed carpet weaving from the limitations of space by repeating intricate patterns interwoven with abstract symbols. The carpet weaver designs the pattern by first drawing them and transferring them onto graphic paper, with each square representing a single knot. Depending on whether a certain drawing is made for a repeated pattern or the center medallion, the graphic paper is divided into various parts.
The loom is the instrument that gives shape to the creative expression of the carpet weaver. The roller beam loom is one of the most simple and commonly used looms in India. This loom consists of two horizontal wooden beams with the warp threads stretched in between. The Persian knot is also widely used in Indian carpet weaving, by tying a strand of yarn with two adjacent warp threads.
Washing is a very crucial element in carpet weaving, as it brings luster to the carpet, and is the most risky stage in carpet weaving. Before the wash, the carpet is burned from the back and rubbed with a wired brush to make the surface even. Using water, soap and other natural elements, the carpet is washed, dried in the sunlight and later sent for clipping. Clipping is a process that requires expertise and the quality of the clipping will undoubtedly reflect on the final finish of the carpet.
