The Origin of Kani
KASHMIRI SHAWL WEAVERS
By William Simpson, 1867.
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"William Simpson, a scottish Journalist ( War Correspondent ) and water colour Artist was sent to India In 1859 to collect stories about the Mutiny of 1857 and prepare sketches which were published in the form of a book later in 1867 titled - India Ancient and Modern. A Series of Illustrations of the Country and People of India and adjacent Territories.
In kashmir, he was amazed to see the craftsmanship of the shawl weavers. These water colours created a renewed demand for kashmiri shawls in European market . It had already captured some market in France and England where it was known as Cashmere Shawl and was popular in Aristrocratic families. Josephine Bonaparte (Napoleon's wife) wore Cashmere Pashmina Shawl and had a collection of 60 kashmiri shawls."
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Source: Chinar Shade
Kani
The name Kani comes from where this particular artisans come from
‘Kanihama’, the word Kani in Kashmir.
It is one of the most oldest hand crafts of Kashmir, the intricate designs caught our attention while exploring the valleys of Kashmir which is when we thought to include this craft in our Pret Summer line.
The essence of this craft is interpreted through prints and hand embroidery motifs. The range overwhelms many styles, keeping it effortless and appropriate for summers.
This was our very first motif and our signature print in our design development. After the meticulous process of filling colours as per design and placement , this motif was finalised.The motives are inspired from the unique shapes used in Kani shawls and a fine placement of summer colours in Resham threads is used to create a hand embroidered artwork, keeping the serenity and beauty of Kashmir intact.