The Fabric of India

Victoria and Albert Museum, London

NOW CLOSED

Part of the V&A India Festival, this is the first exhibition to consider handmade textiles from India, and features the earliest known fragments (dating from the third century) alongside contemporary examples. More than 200 objects are on show, including historic dress, heirloom fabrics and cutting-edge fashion.

Preview the exhibition below | The Top Five Exhibitions Opening This Week

Rabari child’s jacket, cotton embroidered with silk (20th century)

02._Rabari_childs_jacket_cotton_embroidered_with_silk_Kutch_20th_century___Victoria_and_Albert_Museum_London Rabari child’s jacket, cotton embroidered with silk (20th century) Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Map shawl, woollen embroidery (19th century), Kashmir.

Map shawl, woollen embroidery (19th century), Kashmir. Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Wall hanging (detail), cotton appliqué (c. 1700), Gujarat for the Western market.

Wall hanging (detail), cotton appliqué (c. 1700), Gujarat for the Western market. Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Ceremonial cloth, woven silk and gold-wrapped thread (19th century), Gujarat for the Thai market.

Ceremonial cloth, woven silk and gold-wrapped thread (19th century), Gujarat for the Thai market. Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Installation view of The Fabric of India at the V&A

Installation view of The Fabric of India at the V&A © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

(1725-50).

Tipu’s Tent (1725-50). National Trust Images