Terracotta Handicrafts – A Story of Indian Legacy

The term ‘terracotta’ has a Latin origin with ‘terra-cotta’ literally meaning ‘baked earth.’ Terracotta art is practiced in many parts of the world. In India, this craft form exists on an elevated level mainly in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Bihar, and West Bengal. Of these, Rajasthan followed by West Bengal are the two most popular hubs for terracotta craft creation and trade. Carved with passion and precision, the traditional Rajasthan terracotta works are the sensual depictions by the nature worshipers. Rajasthan’s terrain is rough and challenging. The nature has been very stingy with its bounty to the people here. Still, lively in spirit, the Rajasthani artists express their love and desire for Mother Nature through their exquisite terracotta art. Practicing the terracotta craft through generation, often the whole family is involved in the occupation.

The terracotta potters use two types of clay, collected from the local ponds. One has a smooth, plastic like consistency. It is used for creating figurines. The other type of terracotta is coarse and granular. It is used to create plaques. Winter is the most favorable time for terracotta pottery because the wet clay settles down properly and water dries up slowly. This prevents the development of cracks, which are common in summer, especially in large pieces. To three parts of clay, one part of donkey waste is added. This makes it easy to mold into distinct shapes. Once molded, the models are dried in the sun for days. They are then baked in a furnace for three to four hours. Painting is the final stage. Originally, the artists used natural colors to paint their models, but now safe artificial colors are used to make the pieces vibrantly attractive.

Since times immemorial, pottery has been one of the prime occupations of the people of Rajasthan. From the Mesolithic age to the Gupta rulers, we can see terracotta art in its accentuated best. The terracotta deities are worshipped. In addition, the earthen pots are prolifically used for carrying water throughout the country. Terracotta art now is mostly a representation of urban aesthetics in the forms of folklore, mythological characters, human figurines, accessories, vase, and decorative items like vases, lamps, murals, diyas, etc. They are an amalgamation of rustic charm and modern sensibilities.

Peek into the fashion world and you will feel the essence of West Bengal terracotta jewelry ‘déjà vu.’ Neckpieces with large lockets, matched with dangling earrings and loops add an aura of bohemian/oriental touch to the western attire! Their bold colors and intricate artistry are designed to enhance your look! You will also find terracotta moldings in the form of masks and pen stands. The list is endless. The world of terracotta art leaves you in awe with its intricately designed charms.