Jaipur Quilts by Krystyna Hellstrom (Book)

This book affords us a behind the scenes look at Jaipur quilt-making; a popular craft in the Pink City. The author takes us on a journey of uncovering the process, trade, retail and the design language associated associated with Jaipur quilts. 

From the back cover: 

"Every winter as the mercury plummets to a new low each day in northern India, the demand for Rajasthani quilts-popularly known as the ‘Jaipur razai’- is on the rise. It is a seasonal phenomenon and shops indulge in brisk trade. These quilts are handmade, lightweight yet warm and soft; they come in a wide variety of designs and colour tones, extensively using the traditional Indian colour palette and motifs. Meant for everyday use in winter, with origins which can be traced back to the caravan routes of nomadic tribes, Jaipur razais also serve as stylish pieces of traditional handicraft and art.

Designing of quilts in India is a unique combination of experience, traditional values and interests. Quilts are fragments of history with stories to be documented and preserved. The author of Jaipur Quilts, Krystyna Hellstrom arrives from faraway Stockholm and falls in love with the Pink City, its craft and particularly, its quilts. The living royal heritage of the city coupled with its tradition of ethnic craftsmanship leads to a touch of the exotic of everyday humdrum of life."