In Hindu mythology, Apsaras are known as nymphs of water and clouds. In this embroidery, they appear alongside traditional Indian instruments - sarangi and tabla. These figures, who are devoted to gods through music and dance, bring the grace and rhythm of divine resonance to fabric.
The Apsaras
Spirits of Sound and Water
Collection: The Musician Goddesses Collection
Technique: Embroidered on alpaca fabric using back stitch, stem stitch, traditional Chinese embroidery technique (silk shading), Turkish stitch, rococo, birit needle, couching, French knot and fishbone stitch techniques. Bead embellishment and ribbon embroidery were also employed.
Inspiration: Inspired by Hindu sculptures and reliefs, as well as musical iconography.
Tabla
A traditional Indian percussion instrument consisting of two separate drums. The dayan, typically smaller with a wooden body, is played with the right hand; while the bayan, usually larger with a metal or clay body, is played with the left hand. The black central spots (syahi) on the drumheads give the tabla its distinctive tonal quality. The dayan shown in the photo was added to the collection in 2012, purchased in Mumbai.
Sarangi
A traditional bowed instrument from India. Its body is carved from a single piece of walnut or teak wood. In addition to its 3 main melodic strings, it has approximately 35 to 40 sympathetic strings, which give the instrument a rich and resonant sound. The instrument shown in the photo was added to the collection in 2012, purchased in Mumbai.