Chay Reds, Ferrous Black: The untold stories of Indian trade textiles in Sri Lanka
Exhibition
09 Nov 2024 -01 Mar 2025
Citi Gallery, Third Floor, 22, Kasturba Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001, India
Description
The Museum of Art & Photography invites you on a remarkable journey through time with “Chay Reds, Ferrous Black”, an exhibition that reveals the untold stories of Indian textiles found in Sri Lanka. These exquisite Palampores and textile fragments, dating back to the 18th century, once graced humble homes as well as sacred temples. Today, they serve as storytellers, weaving together the rich and intricate history shared between two ancient cultures.
India and Sri Lanka may be separated by the Palk Strait, but these same shallow waters also ensured that their histories intertwined through trade. From the bustling shores of the Coromandel Coast in India, vibrant textiles made their way to Sri Lanka, not just as commodities, but as carriers of culture, faith, and artistic endeavour. Within the Sri Lankan context, Indian symbols take on new meanings, getting localised and gently weaving themselves into the fabric of local traditions and customs.
Thus, the motifs adorning these textiles tell stories that resonate deeply with both Indian and Sri Lankan audiences. The luscious pomegranate, a symbol of fertility associated with Goddess Lakshmi, and the majestic elephant, a key element of religious and royal practices, reflect shared beliefs in abundance and ceremony. And of course, the peacock or mayura, divine vehicle of the God Skanda-Kartikeya and signifier of kingship in both lands. Over time, Indian textiles also started depicting sacred beings from the island’s rich pantheon.
These painstakingly hand-printed and hand-painted textiles have been known by many names over the centuries. The Dutch called them “Sarasse”, the British referred to them as “Chintz.” Painted in the striking chay reds and ferrous black, they reveal sheer artistry and delicate craftsmanship that captivated people across the world. But in Sri Lanka, these vivid designs weren’t just decorative; they were symbols of prestige, tradition as well as the everyday.
Whether you are fascinated by history, drawn to myths and legends, or a lover of textile craftsmanship, “Chay Reds, Ferrous Black” offers an evocative look into the ties that have bound India and Sri Lanka together for generations. This is more than an exhibition—it is an invitation to rediscover a shared heritage, one thread at a time.
Chay Reds, Ferrous Black: The untold stories of Indian trade textiles in Sri Lanka will open at MAP on November 9, 2024.
Venue
Citi Gallery, Third Floor,
22, Kasturba Rd, Shanthala Nagar, Sampangi Rama Nagar, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560001, India
Tags
Terms and Conditions
This ticket is non-transferrable and non-refundable. Please refer to the museum policy for exceptions.
Please carry your relevant ID card with you to avail the discounted entry ticket (applicable to Senior Citizens, Defense Personnel, People with disabilities, 19-25 year old students).
The ticket you receive will entitle you to access the gallery/ies and event/s stated on the front of this ticket. It is valid only on the date stated on the front of the ticket.
During your visit you must retain your ticket safely for production on demand by our representative(s).
The Museum cannot refund any donations made at the time of purchasing the ticket.
Should you have any access requirements, please speak to a member of staff and they will be happy to assist.
Children under 12 must always be accompanied by an adult within the Museum premises. Exceptions may only be made for specific closed-door programmes with pre-agreed terms and conditions.
If you are visiting the galleries, you agree to be bound by and to abide by our Visitor regulations, as stated here:
Backpacks and suitcases of any size are not allowed. Handbags and purses up to 40cm x 40cm are allowed.
Food and drinks are not allowed.
Please do not touch artworks, unless the label indicates it is a tactile response.
The use of charcoal, pastels, permanent markers and watercolour or oil paint is not allowed.
The use of flash, camera supports and selfie sticks is not permitted.
Filming and photography with professional equipment requires prior written consent from the Museum management.
Please only photograph or film people with their consent.
Pets are not allowed in the galleries, with the exception of guide dogs for the visually impaired.