Exceptional collection
The Northern Malabar districts of Kerala is home to three major centres of handloom activity – Kasarakode, Kannur and Kozhikode. High social awareness and better wages in this region gives the Cannanore hand looms textiles a special status. The history of Kannur textiles dates back to 400 years. Between 16th and 17th century, the Koalthiri Raja who was ruler of Chirakkal, Kannur brought some weavers to his kingdom from Chera Nadu (Tamil Nadu). During this time, pit-loom weaving was introduced to Kannur, and cloth production started in Northern Kerala. The textiles woven by these weavers were exclusively for the royal family.
The British, French and the Portuguese were attracted by the spices, ivory and handlooms that Kannur had to offer and so, weaving in the region flourished. In the 1970s, the ‘Cannanore Crepe’ gained international popularity, and since the 1980s Cannanore Home Furnishings has been especially famous in transnational trade. These home furnishings are typically made from cotton yarn sourced from various Tamil mills.
Preserving tradition in a modern world
Richness and vibrancy are the hallmarks of Kannur fabrics making Cannanore Home Furnishings distinctly luxurious. Woven on fly shuttle looms, these fabrics carry the legacy of generations of skilled artisans. From stripes and checks to florals and geometrics, Kannur fabrics offer a diverse design palette. Some special characteristic furnishing fabrics are the "Mushru" fabrics with bright stripes and "Damask" with a reversible sheen add unique textures to the collection.
High quality vat dyes are used to imbue striking, long-lasting hues into the fabrics. The soft, natural spring water in the region ensures exceptional colour retention in the fabrics, providing a superior colour-fastness advantage. The special beating techniques utilised create a dynamic play of weft and warp, adding depth and character to the fabrics. With these features unique to Cannanore Home Furnishings, the fabrics have found their way into the homes of the rich and famous, adorning prestigious interiors worldwide.
Cannanore Home Furnishings stands as a bastion for local products with authenticity and uniqueness preserved through conscious craftsmanship. They showcase the weavers’ commitment towards preserving their cultural heritage.
