Mirror Mirror Dazzle me Gorgeous

Chitra Balasubramanium dives into the world of Sheesha Embroidery explaining its multi faceted beauty that creates a spell on every garment…

- Chitra Balasubramanium

“Mirror mirror on the wall, who is the prettiest one of all.” Haven’t we heard this line uttered by the evil queen so many times as we read fairy tales and watched films? But why do mirrors always have to be on walls? Can’t they be put on our clothing as well? The answer is yes.

HISTORY

India has many forms of embroidery. Each state or region has a particular form but one thing that connects them all is the use of tiny mirrors. Mirror or sheesha work as it is well – known by, can be traced back to the 17th century. Some historians and fabric designers are of the opinion that at the time mica was added to metal strips to make it look shinier and then cut into tiny pieces to create the mirrors. Others are of the opinion that this particular form of embroidery originated from Persia as sheesha is a Persian word. Yet others believe that this elegant form of embroidery was introduced to India by the Mughals who must have brought it with them from Baluchistan, Afghanistan and Iran.

Amidst so many theories it is hard to define the lineage of sheesha work. As centuries passed by, sheesha's work evolved and Indians adapted the embroidery method into their repertoire of stitches. Some of the earliest designs also showcased how such embroidery included adding cut glass, thanks to mass production, to the garment. However, in today’s times, glass has been replaced by plastic or resin, which not only makes it safer for the wearer but also adds more shine to the garment.

FORMS OF EMBROIDERY