Kanakavalli's pick for The Beautiful Drape this May is a striking kanjivaram that showcases some of the craft's most classic elements. Distinctive motifs, layouts and weave techniques come to life in fine silk and zari.
The body of the kanjivaram is dotted with small manga (mango or paisley) motifs woven in silken thread. The contrast korvai borders feature thazhampoo reku (triangle temple designs inspired by the sharp-edged petals of the screw pine or kewra flower) woven in silken yarn rising into the sari's body, as well as rows of moggu (flower buds), benaras twill patterns, mayil (peacocks), diamond kann (patterns resembling eyes) and delicate seer lines, all in gold zari.
Between the body and the pallu of the sari - an area colloquially referred to as dindu by Kanchipuram's weavers - are intricate manga motifs, known as dindu buttas. The pallu is adorned with bands of moggu, benaras patterns, diamond kann designs and thazhampoo reku.
Rooted in tradition, this kanjivaram's contemporary interpretations of colour lend it a timeless elegance.
Available in multiple colour-ways, this exquisite drape features zari with a composition of 25-27% silver and 0.3% gold.