Syaahi HandPainted Soft Silk Cerulean Blue Saree

Who is painted on the pallu?

The pallu panel is orange with two seated figures painted at the centre among lotus flowers and leaf vines. The body is a plain teal-blue, and a wide black and gold border with a floral band runs along the edge, so the orange panel stands out strongly when the pallu is draped open.

Which blouse colour works best?

An orange blouse picks up the pallu and gives a warm contrast to the teal-blue. A black blouse matches the border for a sleek look. Gold jewellery suits both. If you prefer a contrast to the attached blouse piece, these shades are the easiest to source in plain silk.

What is the size of the saree?

The saree is about 6.4 to 6.5 metres long and 45 to 46 inches wide, a comfortable size for a standard nivi drape with full pleats and a generous pallu that shows the painted panel. The blouse piece is attached to this length.

How is the hand painting done?

Each saree is painted by hand with brushes on the soft silk, so the outlines, colour fills and small details carry the artist's hand. That is why each saree is one of a kind, and why the brushwork looks alive rather than printed.

How should I care for it?

Dry clean only. Keep it in its own bag in a dry place, change the folds now and then, and air it in non-moist air regularly; dry it in the shade. Never wash it at home, as water can disturb the hand-painted colours.

Will mine look exactly like the photo?

Very close, but not identical. These are made to order and painted by hand, so motif placement, brushwork and the exact shade of the paints vary a little from piece to piece. Screens also show colour differently. That variation is what makes each saree individual.