Floral Bulb & Chinar Leaf Design Medium Circular Crewel Kashmiri Namda

This distinctive medium-sized spherical Kashmiri Namda represents a remarkable fusion of traditional felted wool craftsmanship and symbolic design artistry that reflects Kashmir's deep cultural connection to nature. Crafted from locally sourced sheep's wool through the ancient namda-making process, the pristine white woollen base provides a luminous canvas that has been felted to achieve the perfect balance of softness and durability characteristic of authentic Kashmiri textiles.

The centrepiece of this exceptional namda is its profound symbolic design executed through masterful Aari crewel embroidery. Four majestic chinar leaves are positioned to point toward the four cardinal directions—north, south, east, and west—creating a mandala-like composition that speaks to Kashmir's spiritual heritage and reverence for natural harmony. This directional arrangement transforms the namda into more than a decorative piece; it becomes a representation of cosmic balance and the interconnectedness of all directions.

Within the sacred space created by these four primary chinar leaves, four smaller chinar leaves are delicately embroidered, creating an intricate nested pattern that adds depth and complexity to the overall design. The floral bulb motifs interspersed throughout the composition celebrate Kashmir's renowned gardens and the valley's seasonal renewal.

The hand Aari embroidery showcases a vibrant palette of woollen yarns encompassing multiple shades of blue, from deep indigo to soft cerulean, harmoniously blended with various greens ranging from sage to emerald. Warm earth tones of brown ground the design, while spirited touches of red and orange add energy and life, reminiscent of Kashmir's stunning autumn landscapes when chinar leaves transform into brilliant tapestries of colour.

Each stitch in this spherical namda reflects generations of inherited expertise, where skilled artisans use the traditional hooked Aari needle to create flowing, continuous embroidery that seems to breathe with organic movement. The spherical shape itself is a testament to the craftsperson's skill, requiring precise technique to maintain the design's integrity across the curved surface.

This namda embodies Kashmir's philosophical approach to craft, where functional objects carry deeper meaning and every decorative element serves as a meditation on the natural world's perfect order and beauty.