Tradition of Assam: Collection of Purbajyoti Sangrahalaya

Textile Tradition of Assam: Collection of Purbajyoti Sangrahalaya

Author/Compiler: Compiled by Goutom Sharma & Julie Barooah

Publisher: Indian Museum

Edition & Year: Edition not mentioned

Pages: 375 pages

Size: 7.5 x 9.5 inches

Textile Tradition of Assam: Collection of Purbajyoti Sangrahalaya is an authoritative and visually captivating publication that celebrates the diverse handloom legacy of Assam, one of India’s most culturally vibrant states. Compiled by textile researchers Goutom Sharma and Julie Barooah, and published by the prestigious Indian Museum, this volume spans 375 pages and showcases the rare textile artifacts from the Purbajyoti Sangrahalaya museum.

This book offers an in-depth exploration of Assam’s unique textile history, weaving techniques, and cultural symbolism. Through vivid photographs, close-up documentation of fabrics, and comprehensive descriptions, it traces the evolution of Assamese textiles—from everyday woven garments to ceremonial attire, ritual fabrics, and heirloom designs. Traditional patterns like the Mekhela Chador, motifs inspired by nature and mythology, and hand-spun techniques are all presented in remarkable visual detail.

What sets this book apart is its museum-based approach. Drawing directly from the collection of Purbajyoti Sangrahalaya, the book provides rare insights into the weaving traditions of Assam’s ethnic communities—including the Mishing, Bodo, and Tai-Ahom groups. Each section contextualizes the textiles within Assam’s broader social and ritual life, making this not just a design resource but a cultural ethnography.

Perfect for textile designers, handloom researchers, cultural anthropologists, and anyone engaged in traditional Indian crafts, the book bridges academic scholarship with practical documentation. The compact 7.5 x 9.5 inch hardcover format ensures durability while retaining elegant visual presentation, making it equally suitable for personal collections, library archives, museum reference, or design studios.

The book also contributes to the conversation on indigenous weaving, sustainable handloom practices, and India’s intangible cultural heritage, making it a valuable acquisition for readers interested in heritage textiles, Northeast Indian culture, and traditional fabric art.

• Published by Indian Museum, one of India’s leading cultural institutions

• 375 pages filled with rare photographs, textile samples, and cultural documentation

• Compiled by textile researchers Goutom Sharma and Julie Barooah

• Features the exclusive collection of Purbajyoti Sangrahalaya, Assam

• Focus on traditional Assamese weaves, motifs, and ceremonial attire

• Ideal for readers of Indian textile history, ethnographic craft studies, and handloom heritage

• Hardbound edition in 7.5 x 9.5 inch durable format

• A significant resource for design schools, museum libraries, and cultural collectors