Chitra Balasubramaniam

Chitra Balasubramaniam


A Uzbekistan Suzani to Treasure

A simple design, minute satin stitches, and fabulous colors in the base fabric and stitching drew Chitra to this suzani textile.

Surma Dani: An Embroidered Bag from Afghanistan

In a market, Chitra chanced upon a little bag from Afghanistan, which led her to research its tribal origins.

Chantilly Lace in India

A query about how French lace goods came to be used as a saree fabric in India resulted in a search for more information. Chitra Balasubramaniam shares what she discovered.

Banjara Dowry Purse

The Banjara embroidery design on a small dowry purse comprises simple squares, rectangles, and line work. But oh! The colors!

Intricately Stitched Tablecloth from Afghanistan

Done in khamak, an intricate form of embroidery, this dastarkhan consists of delicate silk satin stitches on finely woven fabric.

Chakla—Part of a Collective Vocabulary

Can a simple square piece of cloth decorated with fine embroidery be a part of the collective heritage of a community? The answer is yes when it comes to the chakla.

Crochet from India

Contributor Chitra Balasubramaniam shares a beautiful piece that ties into history.

A Wedding Headdress from Afghanistan and Uzbekistan

Gold and beadwork adorn this traditional headdress, which was one of Chitra’s first pieces for her collection of textiles.

The Goddess's Seat: A Small Sujni Quilt

With no flowers or animals, the geometric motif of this quilted sujni was an unusual find.

The Case of a Sodha Rajput Masala Bag

An embroidered bag from Chitra’s collection raises questions about its origins.