PRESERVING AND STUDYING THE RARE FABRICS OF PUNJAB

by NAMITA JASPAL

ABSTRACT

The textile heritage of Punjab includes many fabrics that are unique to this region. Unlike Phulkari and Bagh, there are many other textile-based articles that are on the verge of being lost as an art and skill. Three types of khes, Azarband and some other quilting techniques are not much heard of, and some are almost completely lost. The community holds these textiles in great regard and is keen to provide the best possible conservation solutions for preserving them for future generations to connect and relate to. These textiles need ethical preservation and conservation, just like other important museum and archaeological textile. To study these limited pieces of history, we need to preserve them.
The unique features of three unique pieces of textile culture of Punjab are Khes, Azarband and quilted costumes need further study and preservation.
The preservation by controlling the micro-environment and at the same time considering the sustainability and economic issues is of utmost importance.

ABOUT AUTHOR

NAMITA JASPAL

(CONSERVATION CONSULTANT FOR HERITAGE & CULTURAL PROPERTY, CHANDIGARH)

Namita Jaspal, with inherited skills of art and aesthetics and passion for science, opted to pursue post- graduation in ‘Conservation of Cultural Property’ after her graduation in Science from Delhi University in 1992. Four-year intense training at National Museum Institute provided the right foundation to start a career in Conservation. She is currently practicing conservation consultancy for Heritage and cultural property.