Indian Cotton Chakla or Hanging

Patchwork square of daisies in orange, green and navy, bordered like a quilt.

This embroidered and appliqued cotton chakla hanging is from India, and dates to the 20th century. It is embroidered & applique cotton. Applique joins cut pieces of fabric onto a cotton ground and stitches them down, a technique used across South Asia to make bold patterns from small scraps of cloth. Square textile with a grid of flower motifs in orange, white, navy and green on a tan field. A border of diamonds frames them, and an outer band of small printed blossoms. Round dots and appliqued circles trim two edges. It is 27 inches wide and 27 long.

Cheerful enough to make a cold room feel overdressed for spring.