Saturday, March 29, 2008

Rajasthan Handicrafts

Availability of different metals and its vulnerable nature has made it the base for a variety of decorative techniques such as inlay, metal casting, carving, appliqué, etc. The scope of art metal is immense. The work done in Moradabad, Jaipur and Delhi are representative of this. The cultural land of Rajasthan is well known for its handicrafts as well.

Metal craft has been an integral part of Rajasthan. The 'lota' or water pitcher is an excellent example of the prevalence of this art form in Rajasthan. The metal based lamps in various shapes and designs are part of the Rajasthanj traditions. Lets have a look on different handicraft items of Rajasthan..

Rajasthan Jewellery : Rajasthan jewelry counts amongst the best in the world. Infact, the state is quite popular for its jewelry industry and is one of the world's largest centers for hand cutting of gems. It also serves as an important source of precious and semi precious stones in India. Wooden Jewellery, Bangle Jewelry, Tribal Jewellery, Shell Jewellery, Leather Jewellery, Back Line Jewellery, Shellac Jewellery, Quill Jewellery, Plastic Jewellery, Enamel Jewellery, Stone Jewellery, Kundan Jewellery

Rajasthani Leatherwear : The leatherwears of Rajasthan are famous for hundreds of years. The hides of dead animals is used by skilled cobblers for Jooties (foot-wear), chairs, musical instruments, mojaries, etc.

Rajasthan Paintings : Almost as colourful as the state’s tradition of festivals is its celebrations of arts, and nowhere is this more manifest than in the variety and aartistry of its varying forms of painting.

Rajasthan Stone Carving : Rajasthan is not merely famous for the valorous deeds and heroic sacrifices of its warriors but also for its splendid architectural monuments made of stone. Temples, forts and palaces are glorious achievements of the craftsmen that have few rivals.

Rajasthan Metal Crafts : Indian craftsmen have always shown an exceptional skill in engraving, chasing and ornamenting of gold and silver articles of everyday and decorative use. The metalware of Rajasthan comprises artistic brass work, enameled, engraved and filigree cut work on silver. The Jaipuri-engravers have mastered the medium of engraving on metal.

Rajasthan Blue Pottery : During the middle of the 19th century, Jaipur became a flourishing center for the making of blue pottery. The craft was practiced by one family who guarded its secrets so closely that the technique was nearly lost.

Rajasthan Dhurries And Carpets : Rajasthan Dhurries And Carpets in a simple rug that was once used as an underlay, has now become one of the state's best known weaving traditions. Weavers sit on looms in villages in Rajasthan, creating an interesting blend of patterns- mostly geometric, sometimes floral- in an exciting combination of colours.

No comments: