Handmade in India: A Geographic Encyclopedia of Indian Handicrafts

“Whether experts on the topic or neophytes, all readers will be inspired by this portrayal of the diversity of traditional artistic expression in India.” —Library Journal Daily life in India is enriched by a colorful profusion of handmade goods, crafted with simple tools by artisans rooted in local traditions. From the richly embroidered gabba rugs of Kashmir to the polished metal mirrors of Kerala, and from the turned-wood vases of Gujarat to the coiled-cane hats of Arunachal Pradesh, the range of Indian handicrafts is as rich and varied as the country’s culture and geography.Handmade in India is the first book to explore the entire spectrum of Indian crafts, state by state and district by district. The product of extensive fieldwork, it covers all aspects of India’s regional traditions: their historical, social, and cultural context; design and production processes; and markets old and new. Thousands of color photographs show the artisans at work, their tools, and their finished products. The broad geographic scope allows the reader to appreciate not only the astonishing diversity of Indian crafts, but also the variations (sometimes subtle, sometimes surprising) in the same craft as practiced in different regions. This beautifully illustrated volume is an indispensable reference for product and textile designers, artists, architects, interior designers, development professionals, and collectors alike.