The Paisley Motif: A Symbol with a Universal Story
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The Paisley Motif: A Universal Symbol Through Time
A soft, curved drop shape, part leaf, part bud, part flame. For centuries, the Paisley motif has crossed borders and eras, adorning textiles with timeless elegance.
But do you really know its story?
A motif from the East
What we now call the Paisley motif was originally known as boteh jehgeh, a Persian term referring to a small bush or sprout. Emerging in Iran and Central Asia, this stylized shape symbolized fertility, eternity, and prosperity. It appeared as early as the Sassanid era (224–651 AD), embroidered on precious fabrics worn for ceremonies or by royalty.
Over time, the boteh traveled to India, where it became a pillar of Mughal textile art. In the Kashmir Valley, it was magnificently hand-embroidered on fine wool shawls, often created for royal courts or the aristocracy.
The journey to Europe
In the 18th century, Indian shawls became highly prized in Europe. Imported by the East India Company, they captivated with their refined design and intricate motifs. To meet growing demand, several European manufacturers began reproducing these textiles locally.
In Scotland, the town of Paisley became a hub for these reproductions. Thanks to the Jacquard loom, local weavers were able to produce more complex, colorful, and large-scale motifs. The pattern eventually took the name of the town while its Eastern roots gradually faded from memory.
© Scottish Shawl, 1840–60 - Brooklyn Museum Costume Collection, The Metropolitan Museum of Art
A universal and ever-evolving motif
Over time, Paisley has become a truly global motif, transcending cultures and styles. Sometimes spiritual, sometimes bohemian or psychedelic (especially in the 60s), it can be graphic, floral, abstract, or decorative. From Hermès scarves to Beatles suits to haute couture runways, Paisley always tells a deeper story, one of shared heritage, artisanal craft, and cultural transmission.
A tribute to craft and color
In our Rêves de Cachemire collection, we wanted to restore the Paisley motif to its full symbolic power. Each design is block printed by hand, using finely carved wooden stamps. Each color layer is applied separately in a slow and precise process that reflects the mastery of the artisans we work with. Our tones are sun-kissed, inspired by the natural light of Kashmir, saffron yellows, celadon blues, Indian pinks… The Paisley motif, delicately reimagined, adorns cushions, curtains, kimonos, and table linens, bringing a fragment of history into your home.
