Home > Arts & Culture > Indian Crafts > Terracotta Art in Rajasthan
Terracotta Art in Rajasthan
Terracotta Art in Rajasthan is known for their splendid structures. The art form is known in the state right from the Mesolithic Age and till today continues with glory.

Share this Article:

Terracotta Art in RajasthanTerracota Art in Rajasthan is of much prominence in the state because for these villagers the worship of their terracotta deities is as fundamental and necessary to survival as the water pitcher which contains and carries water from the well to their homes in this dry land. It is said that Terracota Art in Rajasthan has been of outstanding value right from the Mesolithic Age till the Gupta period. The terracotta art works of Rajasthan are also known for its intricate workmanship.

Shrines can be found everywhere in rural India: in small dark caves, in the middle of dense forests, on high hill tops, in the roots of gigantic trees, in open fields, by the wayside or in the village square, at the threshold of a home and even within the living space or courtyard of a family.

In Rajasthan the families of the potter use two sources of clay from local ponds, a coarse one for making the plaques and a plastic one for throwing. Donkey dung is collected by the women from the fields and added to the coarse clay in the ratio of 1:3 to make it suitable for modelling. As with all potter families, there are strict divisions of labour within its members.

In Rajasthan terracotta images of the mother goddess depicted in various incarnations are widely worshipped by the Tribals. As Goddess Durga she sits astride a lion, as Chamunda an elephant, mounted on a buffalo as Kalika or holding a sword as Aawanmata. The serpent god Nagadev has been worshipped in India since ancient times and the images usually have a central figure flanked with several snake consorts. Another popular male deity the potters make is Bhairav represented by two images indicating the deity`s omnipotence - Kala Bhairav, and Gora Bhairav, the dark and the fair. Bhairav, who bears a distinct resemblance to the Lord Shiva, holds a trident, a thunderbolt, a skull and a noose. His mount is a dog and his image is installed in every shrine with that of other gods and goddesses. Kala, cunning and strong willed, is propitiated by the offering of liquor and animal sacrifice while Gora, mild, compassionate and vulnerable, is offered sweetmeats.


Share this Article:

Related Articles

More Articles in Indian Crafts


Ancient Indian Jewellery
Indian Jewellery has its roots in ancient times which gradually improved with dawn of every new civilization in India. The charm of jewellery and the beauty of Indian women by adorning it never separated.
Jewellery in Mughal Period
Jewellery in Mughal Period was one of the most dominant parts of the Mughal tradition. Royal members of the family including both men and women used to display their wealth and status by wearing heavy jewellery.
South Indian Jewellery
South Indian Jewellery pieces are primarily made out of gold and worn during traditional festivals and weddings. The designs are inspired from the fresco paintings.the fresco paintings.
Crafts of Nagaland
The crafts of Naga have not only a national market but have created an impact amongst the foreign tourists as well. The intricate handicrafts of the region have a rustic appeal which makes them unique in appearance and environment-friendly as well.
Crafts of Lakshadweep
The crafts of Lakshadweep are a colourful conglomeration of the rich culture of the people living in the island.
Embroidery of Gujarat
Embroidery of Gujarat has been admired as one of the best creations because of the creativity.
Crafts of Haryana
The crafts of Haryana are rooted to the rural economy and are more than artistic showpieces, they are utilitarian in nature originally crafted as home utility and décor items. With the wave of modernization, these crafts have been remodeled aesthetically while also preserving its rustic appeal.