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Basketry
Willow rushes that grow
plentifully in marshes and lakes in Kashmir are used to make charmingly
quaint objects, ranging from shopping baskets and lampshades to tables
and chairs, all generally in expensive.
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Brass, Copper and Silver
Ware
Kashmir is known throughout the world for its arts
and crafts. There has always been an increasing demand for the
craftsmanship in Kashmir which finds fullest manifestation in
silverware. |
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Embroidery
Chain stitch, be it in wool,
silk or cotton, is done by hook rather than any needle. The hook is
referred to as ari, and quality for quality, hook work covers a much
larger area than needle work in the same amount of time. |
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Namdas
Far less expensive are these
colorful floor coverings made from woolen and cotton fiber which has
been manually pressed into shape. Prices vary with the percentage of
wool- a Namda containing 80% wool being more expensive than one
containing 20% wool. |
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Papier Mache
At first glance, all Papier
Mache` objects look roughly the same, and the price differential seems
almost unreasonable. However, besides at least three different grades of
Papier` Mache`, some is actually cardboard or wood!
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Pherans
A pheran is a traditional
garment worn in Kashmir. This loose coat is worn by people all over the
cold state to ward off the frigid winds of the winter months. It also
accommodates the ubiquitous "Kangri", an earthen lamp carried close to
the body for warmth. |
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Shawls
Kashmiri shawls are noted
for the extreme fineness of the cream coloured goats wool known as
Pashmina and for the intricate embroidery work. Pashmina is unmistakable
for its softness. |
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Silk Textiles
Kashmiri silk
refers to the fine silk sourced from cocoons reared in
Kashmir. Nourished on fine mulberry leaves, the cocoons grown
at the sericulture farms of Kashmir yield a fine quality of
silk. |
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Tweed
Tweed is woven from pure
wool. It is one of the most popular export items among the Kashmir art
and craft items. The fine texture of the Kashmiri tweed makes it a must
buy on your list when you tour Kashmir. |
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Wood Carving
Kashmir is the only part of India where
the walnut tree grows. Its color, grains and inherent sheen
are unique and unmistakable, and the carving and fret work
that is done on this wood is of a very superior quality. |
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