Calicoes were textile exports from India.

Calicoes were a type of textile that originated in India and were known for their colorful and intricate designs. They were made from cotton, which was a major agricultural product in India. Calicoes gained popularity in the 17th and 18th centuries and became a significant export item.

Calicoes as Textile Exports from India:
- Calicoes were made from cotton fabric, which was produced in large quantities in India. The cotton was spun into yarn and then woven into fabric, which was dyed and printed with colorful patterns.
- The designs on calicoes were created using various techniques, including block printing, resist dyeing, and hand painting. These techniques resulted in vibrant and intricate patterns that were highly sought after in international markets.
- Calicoes were lightweight and breathable, making them suitable for warm climates. They were used to make garments such as dresses, skirts, and shirts, as well as household items like curtains and bedspreads.
- The popularity of calicoes as a textile export from India grew during the colonial era. European traders, particularly the British, recognized the demand for Indian textiles in their home countries and established trade routes to import calicoes.
- Calicoes became especially popular in England, where they were used to create fashionable garments for both men and women. The affordability and versatility of calicoes made them accessible to a wide range of consumers.
- The production of calicoes in India became a major industry, with textile centers such as Surat, Madras, and Calicut (after which calicoes are named) becoming hubs of production. Indian artisans and weavers honed their skills to meet the growing demand for these textiles.
- However, the rise of industrialization in Europe, particularly the mechanization of textile production, posed a threat to the Indian textile industry. The British government implemented policies to protect its own textile manufacturers, leading to a decline in the export of calicoes from India.

In conclusion, calicoes were textile exports from India that gained popularity in the 17th and 18th centuries. They were made from cotton fabric and featured colorful and intricate designs. Calicoes were in high demand in international markets, particularly in Europe, but the rise of industrialization led to a decline in their export from India.