Paisley is a town in central Scotland but is also a motif that originated in India, or possibly Persia. There are many different theories about what the "twisted teardrop" represents. Some scholars think the shape is just a stylized floral pattern and others believe the paisley represents the mango fruit. Some say it represents the cypress tree which is a symbol of life in Zoroastrianism. Whatever the case, it is a popular motif throughout the world and has been for many centuries.
I'm not sure when I first saw a paisley but I think my mother made me a blouse in 70's, when I was in fourth grade, made of a gauzy cotton printed with paisleys. Then sometime in college (25 years ago!), I began vintage store shopping...hunting and gathering. I bought two old threadworn paisley shawl pieces that I coveted and still own. I never made them into anything, afraid they would disintegrate.
Now, I have a durable antique paisley in the form of a bronze jewelry die. I just listed the first one I made on Etsy.
Other lovely paisleys.....
