Carpets : Bikaner, Jaipur and Ajmer are the main places for beautiful carpets. Hand knotted carpets have floral or angular motifs. These carpets are known for their high quality of craftmanship and are colour-fast. Each is a treasure that lasts a lifetime. From Bikaner and Torik come also the gaily patterned felt 'numdahs' or small rugs. Carpet weaving is not indegenious to India but brought in by the mughals. By the end of the late 16th century, Indian carpet weavers were producing superior examples comparable with the finest products of Persia. The rulers of Amber-Jaipur took a great interest in carpets and built up a large collection of 16th and 17th century Persian and Mughal carpets. The carpet industry in Jaipur started only in the mid 19th century when carpet making was introduced as a jail craft. Ajmer and Bikaner were also selected as carpet weaving centers. 
Durees : A Durree is a cool, light rug. Rajasthani durries are smooth and closely woven. Pastel shades and a sparse use of geometrical motifs are popular. Durree weaving is also a craft special to Rajasthan. Durrees, of Ramgarh, nigarli woven with a cotton warp and left are especially rich in design, and while being conveniendy light in weight, give a sumptuous carpet like effect. Jaipur is a thriving centre for carpets and durrees today. |
