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Figure 2: Chintz material . ca. 1725 – ca. 1750. Made in India. Collection

Rijksmuseum Amsterdam

Methodology

This research primarily employs a qualitative methodology, relying to a great extent

on primary and secondary sources in gathering data. A majority of the research

consisted of studying temple paintings, complemented with observations of textiles
that are preserved in national museums and other institutions relevant to the study. In

addition to further enhancing the understanding of these visual sources, interviews
were conducted with art critics and art historians as primary sources. Additionally,

literature resources; books, academic journals and other scholarly publications related

to the subject matter served as valuable secondary sources.

Discussion

Origin of chintz

The term "chintz" originates from the Hindustani word "chhint" or "chint", meaning
spotted cloth. Over time, variations such as "Chintes", "Chindeys", or "Cheetes"

emerged to describe this painted cloth, reflecting its variegated or speckled
appearance. Various names were derived based on the markets or specific products

associated with these textiles. Portuguese referred to them as "pintadoes", Dutch as

"sitz", Japanese as "Sarasa", Chinese as "Chinoiseries", while Iranians call it
"Kalamkari" and Sri Lankans call the textiles as “Somana”.

So, the term "Indian chintz" came to denote Indian cotton cloth decorated with floral
motifs, created through hand drawing and dyeing with mordants and resists (Crill,

2008). In some instances, block printing was combined with hand-painted designs.

Artisans were tasked with converting designs according to Indian styles, imbuing
them with uniqueness and excellence. Indian chintz, famous for its detailed designs

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