A Comparative Study of the Visual Patterns and Cultural Functions of Marash, Kutch and Paliwar embroidery in Armenian, Indian and Baloch Cultures

Articles in Press

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 PHD. student of Art Research, Faculty of Arts, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran

2 Associate Professor, Department of Painting, Faculty of Art, Shahed University, Tehran, Iran,

10.22111/jsr.2025.53217.2545

Abstract

Embroidery as a medium in Armenian, Indian, and Balochi cultures, characterized by distinctive visual and technical features, serves divergent identity functions. The necessity of this study lies in addressing a research gap in the simultaneous examination of form and meaning across these three cultures. The primary aim is to provide a comparative analysis of visual patterns and cultural functions. This research, using a comparative method, has answered three key questions: 1. What are the technical differences? 2. What symbolic and social meanings are embedded in the practice? 3. What role does embroidery play in the construction of identity? Findings suggest that Maraş and Paliwar stitching methods operate similarly in the initial phase, but in the weaving phase, Paliwar resembles Kuch.In Armenian, Indian, and Balochi contexts, embroidery conveys ethnic identity through symbols such as the cross, the peacock, and the mountain. Moreover, its ritual uses within churches, votive ceremonies, and dowries help structure social relations. The study demonstrates that by transforming women’s domestic workspace into a sphere of public significance, embroidery fulfills two crucial roles: it resists unwanted cultural change and preserves collective memory. This dynamic process positions embroidery as a living medium for sustaining identity.

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Journal of Subcontinent Researches

Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 02 November 2025

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