"Tea" transforms countless fragments of textile heritage into a spectacular tapestry of color and pattern in this traditional Gujarati patchwork quilt. The rich saffron-gold background-enhanced by years of tea staining-creates a warm foundation for the kaleidoscopic arrangement of fabric pieces featuring intricate embroidery, mirror work, and regional motifs. The quilt's undulating surface reveals its dimensional character, with gentle folds and shadows highlighting the complex topography of this hand-stitched textile masterpiece.

About ArTwork: Tea

This 1989 patchwork quilt, measuring approximately 96 inches wide by 84 inches high, represents the ingenious textile traditions of Gujarat, India, where resourcefulness meets artistic expression. Acquired from Delhi peddlers in the 1990s, the piece exemplifies sustainable artistry through its thoughtful recycling of fabric scraps transformed into a cohesive whole. The characteristic tea-stained patina unifies the diverse textile elements while adding depth and antiqued warmth to the composition. Each patch tells its own story through varied embroidery techniques, geometric patterns, floral motifs, and occasional mirror embellishments-hallmarks of traditional Gujarati textile arts. When displayed, this substantial textile brings immediate textural richness and cultural narrative to interior spaces, whether hung as a dramatic wall tapestry, draped over furniture, or used as a statement bedcover that connects contemporary living to centuries-old traditions of handcraft.