Stories

Upon reaching the Coromandel Coast, Europeans quickly recognized the economic value of Indian cotton textiles, especially striped and checked fabrics. These textiles became key to the triangular trade between Europe, Africa, and Asia. Indian cotton was highly prized for its vibrant patterns and adaptability to different markets, from Guinea cloths for West Africa to Madras…

The knowledge related to Indian printing and dyeing techniques was diffused through the increasing supply of dye manuals from 1760 onwards. Further, it highlights an intersection and overlap between the artisanal dyeing techniques transferred from India and the growth of the science of chemical dyes.

By the 14th century, wool dominated Europe, while cotton thrived in Asia, creating two distinct textile spheres. India, mastering cotton by 1400, became a global leader. Cotton textiles entered Europe as exotic luxuries, disrupting local industries and sparking demand. Indian cotton, vibrant and versatile, challenged Europe’s wool and silk industries in the 17th century. Lightweight…

For nearly five centuries, Indian cotton textiles dominated markets from the Mediterranean to Japan and Africa to China. More than just a product of demand, these textiles knitted continents together and paved the way for global trade and industrialisation. Printed and painted textiles from the Coromandel region were especially key in making Indian fabrics renowned…

The reasons behind the dominance of Indian cotton were not low cost labour or early start. Instead the brilliant finishing and the verities of textiles on offer by skilful artisans of India gave the Indian textiles its edge. Between 1000 and 1500 CE, India honed its textile production into a highly refined craft, developing unmatched…