Even though we were introduced to printing with the help of lemon and lady’s finger the history of block printing dates back to 2nd century CE, China. The text and images were cut into blocks and printed on a silk cloth. With the introduction of this craft to a country full of heritage and colors, it became an inherent part of every Indian’s wardrobe.
The process is tedious but the imperfections builds to an exquisite and bewitching pattern. A chalk paste is applied on the wooden block with the pattern and it is then carved. Three types of blocks are used: Background, outline and filler blocks. Block printing prospered due to the keen interest of the Mughals. As it can be seen as an ode to their encouragement for the craft, the Mughal styles are still used as inspiration for the modern India. The architecture is remarkable for the delicate ornamentation, floral elements and the symmetrical features and continues to be the inspiration for the exquisite block printing designs. The prominent Mughal architectures appreciates the motifs with patterns and symmetry. The motifs are drawn inspired from the characteristic feature of architecture such as the dome. The delicate elements from the architecture often includes abstract, stylized or flowy floral motifs. The floral motifs adorn the domes and the large halls of the monuments. These are also incorporated on to the garments with the use of vivid colors.
Even though decades had passed, the charm and the glory of the Mughal era remains to be one of the faces of the Indian traditions and designs.