Ashiesh Shah Translates Watercolor Paintings into Hand-Knotted Rugs

Designer-architect Ashiesh Shah looked to his own watercolor paintings when developing patterns for this new collection of rugs named “Brahmaand”. Created in collaboration with Jaipur Rugs, the four-piece range sees sand-toned hues paired with deep indigo blues, and motifs inspired by “humankind’s ceaseless search for cosmic relevance”.

The new textiles – named Dwaar, Chanda, Manthan, and Nakshatra individually – have each been hand-knotted by the company’s network of artisans. Across each piece, a number of expert, intricate techniques are employed: from gultarashi, which sees the design carved and embossed, to zardozi embroidery, which is often very elaborate and used to create the tiniest of details.

For Dwaar, tones of blue are paired with red accents on either side of the rug. Simple and geometric, the artwork depicts an abstract “portal to another world”. The Manthan range is similarly minimal and sees two versions in gradients of blue or sand tones, while Nakshatra and Chanda feature intricate patterns that pay tribute to the phases of the night sky and ancient Indian astronomy instruments respectively.

The main collection is bolstered by a limited edition range named “Brahmaand Manchaha”, which Mumbai-based Shah designed in collaboration with artisans for Jaipur Rugs‘ wider Manchaha social empowerment program. For this, weavers are provided with leftover wool and bamboo silk in a wide array of colors. Then, they are able to create anything they wish – and for this particular piece, were inspired by conversations with Shah – combining the artist’s celestial focus with their own surroundings and objects from their daily lives. “Ideas, myths, and folklore about the solar system, celestial bodies far beyond, and the invisible universe are translated into intricate symbols paired with fine craftsmanship,” the brand says.

Take a closer look at the collection above, and for more design, check out the latest collections from Danish brand Muuto.