Natural and Neutral leather embossed or punched on colorful fabrics creates the most magnificent bass relief leather appliqué. Along with embroidery on leather, artisans of Gujarat are known for their exclusive geometrical patterns punched on leather and appliquéd on varied colors of textiles. Negative spaces created with the multihued textiles amplify the tiny patterns hollow stamped on leather, shaped in form of stars, rhombus, triangles, circles, teardrops and the like.
The unique design identity of the reverse leather appliqué of Gujarat is the lyrical way punched forms are composed to create geometrical patterns. Circles, zigzags, flowers, triangles enmeshed together to create beautiful design forms look marvelous dotted with tiny punched holes and the colorful background seen through it.
The natural or tanned leather with its individuality adds in to any pattern of product a statement of style and poise. Bags and other fashion accessories created in this technique harmonizes a blend of minimalism with exquisiteness. Lamps and other decorative hangings created by this style highlight elegance and dexterity of the medium and the creator.
Traditional Trivia
Leather craft in Gujarat is practiced by two aboriginal communities of Maldharis and Meghwals. Maldharis the cattle herders rear animals and provide the Meghwals with raw material. Meghwals residing in Kutch district are known for their dexterous and creative craft of leather embroidery and appliqué. Men of this community used to tan or dye leather and then cut patterns for products. The designs on leather were hereafter punched and later colored cotton cloth or different colored leather was affixed behind the punched patterns as a backing. The leather was finally hand-stitched into the shape and decorated further by hand- stitching along the seams. With time and changing needs and requirements of the consumers, the leather craftsmen of Gujarat have adapted to modern-day functionality. Today leather products are appliquéd and embellished with embroidery and mirror work.
Community Involved
Maldhari and Meghwal communities
Raw Materials Used
- Goat skin
- Camel hide
- Abla or mirrors
- Embroidery yarns