PRINCIPLES OF DESIGN AND APPLICATION

Lesson 12:Traditional Motifs in Relation to Textiles

Common traditional motifs of Indian textiles

• Peacock motif
• Parrot motif
• Goose or hansa motif
• Lotus motifor Kamal (the flower of wisdom)
• Jasmine motif
• Small buti motif
  
• Mango motif
  
• Tree of life motif
  
• Conch shell motif
  
• Fish: Fish motif (Fig.12.212) is commonly used motif of madubani paintings and kantha embroidery. It is symbol of prosperity.

• Elephant motif
  
• Sun: The sun is the oldest motif (Fig.12.31) used by the man for decoration from time immemorial. Men believed in mysterious power of the sun and sun is worshipped as deity. It is a source of light, cosmic energy and symbol of power. The sun is also associated with the fire which plays a significant part in Hindu rites, religious and matrimonial.

• Trident: Trident is also a traditional motif (Fig.12.32) which has religious significance. It is associated with Lord Shiva. It signifies power.
  
  

• Rudraksh motif
  
• Kalasha motif
  
• Swastika Motif
  
• The hunting scene or shikar motif