The paisley pattern is more than just a design, it's a symbol of cultural exchange and the blending of different artistic traditions from around the world
The paisley pattern is one of the most recognisable and iconic designs in the world. It’s a teardrop-shaped design that’s often associated with Scotland and India, and it has a rich and fascinating history that spans several centuries and continents. We're proud to have encorporated it into our logo as the wings on our honey bee.
The paisley pattern is believed to have originated in the ancient city of Babylon, in modern-day Iraq. The design was used to decorate a range of objects, from textiles to pottery, and it was thought to have had religious or mystical significance. The design was adopted by the Persians and was later brought to India, where it was adapted and transformed into the paisley pattern that we recognise today.
The word “paisley” comes from the town of Paisley, near Glasgow in Scotland. In the late 18th century, the town became a centre for the production of shawls that were decorated with the paisley pattern. These shawls were highly sought after and were exported all over the world, including to Europe and the Americas. It was this popularity that led to the paisley pattern becoming associated with Scotland.
The paisley pattern became particularly popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when it was used to decorate a wide range of objects, from clothing to wallpaper. The Arts and Crafts movement of the late 19th century saw a resurgence in the popularity of traditional designs and techniques, and the paisley pattern was one of the designs that was embraced by this movement.
In recent years, the paisley pattern has once again become popular, and it’s now used to decorate everything from fashion items to home decor. The pattern has been modernized and adapted, but it still retains its distinctive teardrop shape, and it’s still one of the most recognisable and iconic designs in the world.
"The paisley is the happiest of all prints. It's like a garden, it's an entire world in a design." - Diane von Furstenberg, American fashion designer.
So, what is it about the paisley pattern that makes it so enduring and appealing? Perhaps it’s the combination of its rich history, its versatility, and its intricate and beautiful design. Or maybe it’s simply because it makes us think of Scotland and all that’s associated with this fascinating country.
The paisley pattern is a design that has stood the test of time, and its popularity continues to endure. From its humble origins in ancient Babylon to its modern-day use in fashion and home decor, the paisley pattern is a testament to the power of design to inspire and captivate us. Whether you’re a fan of its intricate beauty, its rich cultural history, or simply its Scottish roots, there’s no denying that the paisley pattern is a truly remarkable and enduring piece of design.
Here are six references for further reading:
“Paisley: The Pattern and the Town” by Peter MacDonald (1985)
“The Paisley Shawl: A Cultural History” by Lynn McMurray (2008)
“The Arts and Crafts Movement in Scotland” by Fiona Duncan and Alastair J. Durie (2011)
“A World of Pattern: The Survival of Traditional Crafts” by Richard Sennett (2014)
“The History of Textiles” by Elizabeth Wayland Barber (1999)
“Babylon: Mesopotamia and the Birth of Civilization” by Paul Kriwaczek (2002)
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