19-12-2019: Applique Embroidery A commemorative postage stamp

Applique is a type of embroidery that employs a smaller patch or fabric to be applied or sewed onto a larger fabric or surface to create different designs, abstract patterns or pictures. This embroidery art form came to India with the French in the 17th century. Applique is used extensively in quilting or adorns sarees with elaborate and vibrant looking borders. Rajasthan is also known for its unique applique or gota, which is created by sewing edges of zari ribbon onto fabric to create elaborate patterns.