Paean to Paisley

The distinctive teardrop pattern has enjoyed a rich history, beginning in Persia 2,000 years ago and travelling to London's Spitalfields via a certain Scottish town

- Celia Rufey

Paisley pattern incorporates a motif that, once seen, is never forgotten. It is variously described as a teardrop, tadpole, pine cone, pear, mango and feather, or, with more cultural significance, as a combined cypress tree and flower spray symbolising life and fertility. The motif probably originated in Persia around 2,000 years ago and travelled through central Asia with the name boteh meaning 'flower'. Reconfigured in innumerable ways ever since, whether simplified or elaborated, this distinctive shape is remembered and lives on.