Hand Embroidery

Ancient Art for Modern Times

For over 500 years, families of talented artisans in the Kashmir Valley have produced masterpieces of embroidery on shawls, jackets, coats, and capes. Napoleon wore them as a waist wrap, and his wife’s embrace of the “French” Kashmiri shawl defined European fashion in the early 1800s.

Himalayas – backdrop for flora of the Kashmir Valley – the source of inspiration for embroidery designs

The shawl weavers of Kashmir have handed down this 500-year-old tradition through generations of families, drawing inspiration from the palette and flora of the Himalayan foothills. Introduced by the Persians, their intricate, stylized designs are embroidered on the finest Merino wool, also hand-woven in the Kashmir Valley.

Relive the updated experience at our store. Help us keep the art alive and provide a second income to more than 60 families who depend on this to supplement their farming income.

The artisans set their own wages, receive bonuses, and are encouraged to experiment with new designs and color combinations. We have no middle person. Our family members in Kashmir work directly with the artisans, then personally package and ship to Baltimore. This direct connection has enabled us to maintain the museum-quality embroidery we have carried for over 30 years and gives these artisans the freedom to continuously develop new designs and for a living wage that they establish.

These heirloom pieces are perfect for all seasons and occasions, equally at home with jeans or a cocktail dress.

Embroidering at home

Below are just a few samples of the many designs we have in our store. Sizes run from XXS to XXL. In-stock sizes are limited since orders take more than six to eight months to from start to finish, including shipping.