Kanakavalli’s December pick for The Beautiful Drape is a classic kanjivaram showcasing the craft’s laborious hand weaving techniques and its timeless beauty.
The body of the sari is adorned with a geometric pattern executed in an extra–warp technique, intersecting at right angles with an extra–weft detail: a delightful play of precision and symmetry. The straight-edge korvai borders, which allow for a dramatic contrast of colour, feature silk bands, benaras or chevron designs, and a row with a unique combination of rudraksh motifs, vanki detailing inspired by the traditional armlet, kattu lines and wavy neli patterns resembling the classic toe-ring, all in gold zari. Mayil (peacock) and manga (paisley) motifs are woven across the centre of the borders, which are lined with arai moggu or half-bud patterns. The pallu, attached in the benth technique, is embellished with delicate seer lines on either side, while a repeat of the border patterns forms the central band.
The beauty of this kanjivaram lies in the harmony between bold geometry and ornate detailing, beautifully brought to life through a thoughtful interplay of colour and zari.
Available in multiple colour ways, this kanjivaram features zari with a composition of 0.3% silver and 26% gold.