Shisha or mirror embroidery is traced back to the 17th century in Iran and it is said to have been brought to the Subcontinent through various travelers during the Mughal era. The mirrors are affixed on to the fabric by special cross stitch embroidery that encloses the mirror, and provides it a casing. This cross stitch embroidery is not only relegated to affixing the mirrors, but they are also used on the garment as well to enhance the overall appeal of it. Although the most popular shape of the mirror that is used commonly is circular, there are other geometrical shapes such as square, triangular, hexagonal and polygonal that are used for embroidery.
The term derives from (Persian) shisheh for ‘glass’. In recent times however, mirrors have been replaced by reflective luminescent metal pieces of different shapes and sizes, particularly on apparel. Mirror work is used on various fabrics such as georgette, crepe, cotton, silk, chiffon and many more which are then turned into attractive apparel and accessories ranging from sarees, to cushion covers and belts.
The great Italian merchant traveler, Marco Polo was one of the secret admirers of mirror work embroideryQuick Fact