The terracotta tradition in Rajasthan dates back to the Harappan age. Today too it continues, as it is one of the interesting pieces of art for the tourists. Most of these are made in the villages of Rajasthan. The state's excellent artistry has been instrumental in creating some of the most phenomenal images or art forms. A mixture of clay is used to on the potter's wheel and pots of various shapes and sizes are created manually. Patience, concentration and meticulousness are highly required to make the pots. Besides pots and water jars other object of arts, such as, warriors mounted on horses, elephants and their keepers, plaques of deities and votive images are also part of the pottery in Rajasthan.
The Blue Pottery of Jaipur is quite popular amongst art lovers. There is an interesting history regarding how this kind of pottery arrived at Rajasthan. Blue glazed pottery originated in China and was later perfected by the Persians. It was the Mughals who introduced it to India. This art form was brought to Jaipur by Sawai Jai Singh II. In the middle of 11th century Kripal Singh Shekhawat started experimenting with its form and colours under the patronage of Raj Mata Gayatri Devi of Jaipur. From then on Jaipur became the pioneer of Blue Pottery.
These delicate pieces of art are made of fuller's earth, quartz, raw glaze and sodium sulphite. Partly made in moulds and partly on the wheel these are decorated with various designs on the surface with the help of cobalt colour. After receiving a final coat of glaze, these are baked in a loin for 3 days. Nowadays the earthen artifacts are also designed by using yellow, pink and green colours. Jaipuri tiles, vases, bowls, plates, pots, mugs and doorknobs are also created with this art from. The designs remain predominantly traditional geometrical or floral, though it is also common to find animal and human figures.
(Last Updated on : 11-11-2014)
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