ARCHAEOLOGICAL ART OF APPARELS
By Rafiqa Sultana, Afroz Sultana
Summary
Archaeological Art of Apparels investigates how archaeological discoveries illuminate the evolution of clothing in India. The authors argue that art is interpretative rather than merely factual and that textiles are an essential part of cultural heritage. Evidence from the Neolithic period, such as bones, needles and spindle whorls, indicates early weaving. Excavations at Harappa and Mohenjo‑daro reveal advanced spinning and dyeing; spindles suggest that both rich and poor spun cotton and wool, and dyers’ vats point to fabric colouring. A torso sculpture from the Indus civilisation shows a garment with a trefoil pattern and headband, hinting at decorated clothing and social status. In the Vedic age, terminology for garments—lower ‘Vasa’, upper ‘Adhivasa’, fitted ‘Samhitas’ and ‘Surubhi’, pleated ‘Nritu’, cloaks ‘Upavasana’ and jackets ‘Atka’—reflects a sophisticated fashion sense. Apparel was embellished with gold embroidery, and monks and nuns wore yellow robes composed of specific pieces. Buttons made of conch, bone and shells demonstrate intricate tailoring. By tracing these developments, the article shows how textiles reveal technological advances, social hierarchy and cultural exchange, and argues that garments should be studied as artistic artefacts that mirror India’s evolving civilisation.
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Conclusion
Archaeological evidence shows that Indians mastered weaving, dyeing and tailoring from prehistoric times. Neolithic tools, Indus textiles and Vedic garment names reveal a continuity of textile traditions, while decorated clothing and accessories reflect social identity and religious symbolism. Recognising apparel as a form of art enriches understanding of India’s cultural evolution.