Calico Printing Block c. 1941

This is a Calico Printing Block made by George File, an artist who lived between 1855 and 1945. Calico printing flourished during the height of the British Empire, connecting it to global trade networks and colonial histories. The block would have been used to print patterns onto textiles, demonstrating a fusion of artistry and industry. Textile production and trade were central to early capitalism and deeply implicated in colonial exploitation, as raw materials were extracted from colonized lands and manufactured goods were sold back, often under exploitative labor conditions. The patterns that were printed on these textiles often reflected cross-cultural exchanges. The floral motif speaks to broader dialogues around labor, commerce, and cultural exchange. This object carries a complex history of craftsmanship, colonialism, and consumerism.