What are stepwells and what do they represent?

For our first exclusive rug collection produced by cc-tapis, Shalini Misra looked to the thousands of stepwells in India for inspiration. Usually referred to as a ‘Vav’ or, ‘Baoli’ in Rajasthan, the stepwells are a vital component of India’s architectural, cultural, and social history.

Historically, stepwells were renowned as India’s most efficient water-harvesting systems, acting as reservoirs while also doubling up as unifying spiritual centres, social gathering spots and a place of refuge for ritual purification and prayer. For women in particular they were a safe haven, offering protection and shelter from the overpowering heat as they fetched water for the community.

Though stepwells are disappearing and deserted due to modernisation, governmental and heritage organisations are striving to conserve the architectural phenomenon – something that we at Curio are passionate about.

Why did we choose cc-tapis to produce the limited-edition rugs?

cc-tapis has a strong respect for natural materials, which is reflected in its eco-friendly approach to production. Each rug is made using the finest natural Himalayan wool and sourced from the surrounding areas of the studio’s atelier in Kathmandu, Nepal. No machines are used and everything is handmade by expert artisans following ancient traditional techniques.

Each rug passes through many hands. The raw materials are first carded and hand-spun by one team, dyed by a master colour expert, knotted by Tibetan artisans and finished by a team of expert craftspeople who shave, trim and bind the final piece.

cc-tapis also cares about its people, practices and impact on our world, undertaking a path of transversal reduction through its production and distribution processes, whilst paying attention to social, human, and economic factors. They also launched the non-profit organisation cc-for education which provides the children of Nepalese weavers private education. From launching plastic-free packaging using discarded clothing, to attaining carbon neutrality, cc-tapis offers much more than its soulful, high-end textiles.

How are the rugs made and how were the stepwells translated onto the materials?

The complex and ancient production method of hand-knotting is favoured by the atelier – a common technique in the Middle East, India and China. Every stage of production is managed in-house, from refining raw materials to dying processes, enabling full control to create unique, bespoke pieces. Every Tibetan knot is handmade on a vertical loom holding a warp made of hundreds of stretched strands of cotton. A single rug can have up to 232.000 individual knots per square meter, indicative of the lengthy production time which ranges between 14 to 17 weeks depending on the quality and size. Once the knotting is complete, the rug undergoes extensive finishing processes including hand-cutting, shearing and embossing. The final piece is washed in recycled rainwater, stretched, and sun-dried in the Himalayan sun.

The images of Indian stepwells are translated onto the rugs by weaving exceptionally delicate gradients of hand-dyed Himalayan wool. To evoke a surreal and sculptural effect, cc-tapis’ Nepalese artisans integrate different pile heights, textures and an original combination of colours to define the varying levels of stepwells and elaborate carvings – thoughtful craftsmanship at its finest.

What does this collection mean to Curio?

Curio is rooted in community. We nurture, spotlight and celebrate under-represented talent all across the globe to bring to market out-of-the-ordinary artists and makers. Here, we want to celebrate the talented Nepalese artisans and tight-knit team who soulfully stitch each bespoke piece.

Rugs, as functional and textural foundations, have a unifying power, serving to bring people together and act as grounding elements for both entertaining and everyday living. This draws parallels with the historical use of stepwells; the fundamental heart of community.

Shop the rugs here

To mark the launch of our exclusive rug collection by Shalini Misra, produced by cc-tapis, we organised a little fireside chat with Shalini and cc-tapis’ founder, Fabrizio Cantoni. Together they dive into the cultural significance of stepwells, the creative process, and the intricate production methods that give each piece its unique soulful character.

Shalini, what drew you to the stepwells of India as a source of inspiration?

The stepwells of India, known as ‘Vav’ or ‘Baoli,’ are an integral part of the country’s cultural and architectural history. Their historical significance, acting as water-harvesting systems and spiritual centres, deeply inspired me. They also served as safe havens, particularly for women fetching water, reflecting a rich cultural tapestry that I wanted to honour in the collection.

Shalini, why did you choose cc-tapis to produce the limited-edition rugs?

cc-tapis stood out for its commitment to craftsmanship and eco-friendly practices. With a deep respect for natural materials and an emphasis on handmade techniques, they aligned perfectly with the vision for this collection. Their dedication to social and environmental responsibility, as seen through initiatives like cc-for education, really resonate with Curio’s values.

Fabrizio, could you describe the step-by-step production process and any special techniques used?

The handknotting technique is at the core of our production process, a method common in the Middle East, India, and China. From refining raw materials to dying processes, every stage is managed in-house. Our artisans pour everything into each rug. Pieces can include up to 232,000 individual knots per square meter. The finishing processes, including hand-cutting and embossing, contribute to the exceptional quality.

How long does each piece take to make, and how many artisans are needed to create one?

The production time varies, but on average, each piece takes 14 to 17 weeks to complete. A team of skilled artisans work closely together to ensure the rugs meet our exceptional and responsible standards.

How were the stepwells translated onto the materials?

The images of Indian stepwells are translated onto the rugs through delicate gradients of hand-dyed Himalayan wool. Our Nepalese artisans integrate different pile heights, textures, and an original combination of colours to define the varying levels of stepwells and elaborate carvings.

Sustainability has become an overused term across interiors and fashion industries. How is cc-tapis practicing responsible design?

cc-tapis prioritises sustainability through the use of ethically sourced materials and eco-friendly production practices. Our commitment goes beyond words – from using plastic-free packaging to achieving carbon neutrality. And, through our non-profit organisation cc-for education, we’re not just designing rugs; we’re creating a positive impact. It’s our way of weaving responsible design into every thread of our work.

Shalini, what does this collection mean to Curio?

Shalini: This collection holds profound meaning for Curio as it celebrates the talent of Nepalese artisans and the collaborative spirit within our tight-knit team. It is a testament to our commitment to spotlighting under-represented artists globally and bringing unique, meaningful pieces to the market.

Do either of you have a favorite piece from the collection?

Shalini: Each rug is special, but if I had to choose, I’m particularly fond of Ujala for its embodiment of the stepwell’s arch-shaped niches. I’m also drawn to the contrasting blue and grey tones.

Fabrizio:

“I love all of them. I can’t just mention one, as each rug has its own distinct personality. We have developed the collection working closely with Shalini, pushing our production processes to be sure that the images of Indian stepwells were tangible in each design. I couldn’t be happier with the final result.”

To read more about the rugs, read our article here [link to article]