CHATTAI
Chattai weaves, a testament to human skill and patience, are traditionally handwoven by skilled artisans using grass and fibres.
This craft, passed down through generations, is predominantly taken up by women in local communities. The mats, woven across India, not only function as floor coverings for rural dwellings but also serve as a means for communities to uphold their heritage.
Employing a plain-weave pattern, Chattai weaves create a distinctive graphic appeal. The intricate chequer-board designs feature patterns such as chevron borders, abstract motifs in a grid pattern, illusions, diagonal weaves, squares, diamonds, dots, stripes, and checks.
Each weave is a showcase of artistic expertise and cultural preservation, encapsulating the essence of traditional craftsmanship in India.
Winnowing Basket: Timeless Tool for Grain Separation
The winnowing basket, a tool with a rich history, has been utilized for centuries in India for the the essential task of separating grain from chaff.
In the winnowing process, unprocessed grain, mixed with impurities like dirt or inedible husks, is placed into the basket. The basket is then lifted and shaken, effectively segregating lighter particles, such as dust and dirt, from the denser grain.
The shallow, circular winnowing baskets, aided by the natural flow of wind, facilitate the removal of lighter particles, streamlining the grain-cleaning process. Crafted with a base made from intricately plaited strips of bark, complemented by a reinforced rim wrapped with fiber strips, provides stability to support the basket handling.
Beyond its practical function, the winnowing basket symbolizes a timeless tool that has played a crucial role in shaping agricultural practices throughout history.
