Tanzeb was another variety of muslin with a reasonably fine weave structure commonly used for chikan embroidery. The cloth was purposely woven in specified lengths, for instance, 19-20 yards for the convenience of embroidery work and subsequent usages like Dupattas and pieces for garments such as Angarkhas.[1][2]

Meaning edit

Tanzeb means what adorns the body. It is a combination word where Tan means body, and Zeb refers to an ornament. Hence the cloth was known for decorating the body.[3]

Origin edit

Tanzeb was originated in the second half of the eighteenth century during the reign of Āsaf al-daulah.[4]

Production edit

Raebareli district and the town of Jais were reputably manufacturing Tanzeb.[4][5]

Use edit

Tanzeb used for various headdresses and garments such as caps, turbans, angrakhas, and handkerchieves.[4] Tanzeb was among the various cotton qualities exported to England.[3]

References edit

  1. ^ Hoey, William (1880). A Monograph on Trade and Manufactures in Northern India. American Methodist Mission Press. p. 88.
  2. ^ Jalibi, Jamil; Khan, Ansar Zahid (1997). Pakistan Culture. National Book Foundation. p. 75. ISBN 978-969-37-0057-2.
  3. ^ a b Panjab University Research Bulletin: Arts. The University. 1973. p. 143.
  4. ^ a b c Trivedi, Madhu (2010). The Making of the Awadh Culture. Primus Books. p. 231. ISBN 978-81-908918-8-2.
  5. ^ Oudh (India), United Provinces of Agra and (1924). District Gazetteers of the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh: Rai Bareli. Supdt., Government Press, United Provinces. p. 47.