The embroidered works of the famous Dhebaria Rabari community of the Kachchh Desert are evolving. The group enjoys a close relationship with traditional Vankar weavers.
The deshi wool of the desert regions of Rajasthan makes for durable and long-lasting carpets. The wool is naturally black, cream or white, creating a harmonious palette that works anywhere. To this palette the weavers of Jawaja add accented colour that give their work a contemporary feeling. The Jawaja artisans weave on extra-wide handlooms to create these stunning flatweaves. They feature simple, bold designs and are fine examples of the weaver's art.
The Artisan's Alliance of Jawaja (AAJ) is a rural cooperative located in Rajasthan, India. AAJ members are leatherworkers and carpet weavers.
In Jawaja, weaving is an art that involves the entire family. From bobbin winding to loom dressing, both men and women dedicate themselves to learning the tasks needed for the production of these robust carpets.
In contrast to many other types of carpet, Jawaja flatweaves are designed for everyday use. Starting with a cotton warp, local wools are intertwined into a tight weft-face. They are often constructed in bold, simple, geometric patterns that bring a measure of colour and light to the rooms that they adorn.
One of our great joys is seeing the artisan cloth, woven and dyed by the many communities we work with across India, find its way into a well-loved home.
The feeling we get when we encounter a beautiful textile is often similar to the feeling we get when we see a piece of jewellery. A sense of wonder, a little intake of breath, and the feeling that the piece is subtle. It is the result of tradition, skill, and the secrets of craft.
Over many years, Maiwa has travelled the world researching textile processes and the cultures that support them. During this time we have also encountered cultures with a long history of unsurpassed skill in working precious metals.
Maiwa seeks out traditional items, such as amulets, broaches, turquoise, lapis and amber. When working in India we employ local silversmiths to set stones and traditional pieces in 92.5% silver settings.
We are happy to say that in India, our enthusiasm for these pieces has ignited renewed interest in traditional work. Often the combination of antique elements in new settings provides the perfect contrast to fire the imagination. These are pieces with a history and a story, adornment that whispers in its own voice.
These shawls showcase the immense creativity that artisans have taken in approaching every aspect of the shawl. Right from the moment the spinner grasps multiple fibres between her fingers and begins to work with them there is an excitement and joy in creating.