Chintz (known as Sarasa in Japan), originated in India, has been used for various purposes such as clothing, religious ceremonies, and interior decoration for thousands of years since its inception. Employing natural dyes such as madder and indigo, and utilising various techniques to vividly dye cotton, sarasa is characterised by its expansive, richly detailed patterns. India has long been a hub for the global textile trade. As a major commodity, chintz reached Southeast Asia and Africa by the 1st century AD. During the Age of Exploration, its exports expanded worldwide following the establishment of the East India Companies across Europe. This led to the production of chintz designs tailored to meet the demands of other nations.

This exhibition would be the first opportunity in Japan to display specially selected works from the collection of Karun Thakar, one of the world's leading collectors of Indian chintz. Alongside the Thakar's collection of rare chitz, including a 8 metre long narrative hanging preserved in perfect condition, the exhibition features works from domestic collections illustrating the development of sarasa in Japan. It introduces the allure of Indian chintz, which has attracted people across time and cultures.

Works:

• Approximately 60 textiles

Exhibition Structure:

• Chapter 1: Indian regional market goods
• Chapter 2: Early trade within Asia
• Chapter 3: European export and luxury trade
• Chapter 4: Globalisation and localisation of design

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Hanging
Southeast India
17th-18th century
reportedly found in Sri Lanka
© Karun Thakar Collection, London
Photo by Desmond Brambley.