Chikan (embroidery)
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Chikan (Hindi: चिकन) is a traditional embroidery style from Lucknow, India. Literally translated, the word means embroidery. Believed to have been introduced by Nur Jehan, Mughal emperor Jahangir's wife, it is one of Lucknow's most famous textile decoration styles.
Patterns and effects created depend on types of stitches used and the thickness of the threads used in embroidery. Some the varieties of the stitches used include back-stitch, chain stitch and hemstitch and result is an open work pattern, jali (lace) or shadow-work.
Traditionally, white threads were used on semi-transparent muslin cloth. However, with the advent of newer fabric types, and changing demands and fashions chikankari is now also been done on a variety of fabrics including synthetic ones. Chikankari is also available now in various colours. Sequin work is also done on the fabrics along with chikankari to give it the exquisite and glittering look.
A good guide to refer to Chikan is the book titled "Romancing With Chikankari"1by Veena Singh from Lucknow. The book deals with the history of chikan, the various styles of chikan, the importance and role palyed by Chikan in Lucknow' culture and the various stitches in Chikan.
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