Based on a tendrilled teardrop motif that originated in India before the rise of the Roman Empire, paisley has been used in European textiles since 1780. The patterns here were designed in Scotland (where the town of Paisley is found) and in France in the early 19th century. These wrapping papers are gorgeous—we've oohed and aahed over them at Daedalus—and offer a distinctive and beautiful alternative to the usual gift-wrap fare. The folio contains 10 papers printed with various motifs in sharp, rich color, unfolding to nearly 20 x 28 inches (50 x 70 cm). A 12-page introduction in English, German, and French describes the significance of the designs, making the portfolio just as appropriate on the bookshelf as in the wrapping box.