Let’s Know Handicrafts of India

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Introduction Handicrafts can be defined as objects made by skilful use one’s hands. Handicrafts is also known as ‘craftwork’ or simply as a ‘craft’. It is a generic term that includes different ethnic and traditional items made and designed entirely by hands or by using simple hand tools. Often his term is also applied to the age-old process or means of making these items. Handicrafts epitomize centuries of evolutionary tradition and include items that may be used for sacred and religious rituals or have cultural significance, such as pottery, metal ware, sculpture, jewellery and many more. At the same time, handicrafts also include items of domestic usage like pots, lamps, etc.

Objects made in factories or by machines cannot be considered as handicrafts. There is not much difference between handicrafts on one hand, and art and craft, on the other. While these two categories have a lot of common characteristics, there is nevertheless a basic distinction between the two in terms of their utility. The usefulness of handicraft items is beyond simple decoration as these are used for domestic purposes or as an essential part of daily life, whereas art and craft have an artistic and creative edge.

Handicrafts normally carry a touch of ethnicity and an unusual style and elegance. In India, handicrafts are an integral part of one’s life. In spite of the fast technological and social changes taking place, handicrafts continue to occupy a central place in the Indian household. In contrast to the developed world, where deft artisans create craft object as luxury items, it is a main source of employment for a large part of the population in the rural interiors of India.

Back of The Book The story of Indian Handicrafts is related with the development of the Indian civilization since the ancient times. Handicrafts were initially simple objects, made essentially for daily use by ancient man, but the craving for artistic appeal soon resulted in the growth of numerous attractive styles and designs.

The beautiful artifacts that have surfaced from the Harrappan and Mohanjodaro civilization sites reveal the creative inclinations of the people of that time. The same technique and crafts perfected over centuries continue to captivate the aesthetics of the people to this day.

Handicrafts of India is like a precious stone in the bejeweled crown of Indian culture and heritage. They come in a spellbinding variety of vivid motifs and patterns. In fact, the diverse cultures, lifestyles and traditions of this land have lent the most vibrant and exquisite designs to handicrafts over the years. Be it intricately decorated metal craft or some marvellous marble inlay work or some exquisite paintings, Indian handicrafts have carved a niche for themselves with their ethic designs and flourishing textures. The immense magic created by the Indian hands is visible from the timeless artistry of the dazzling semi precious jewellery, exquisite furniture, colorfully toys and dolls, beautiful painting and enthralling sculptures.

This book a detailed description of different handicrafts items crafts in India, which lend grace and beauty to homes where they are decorated, or to the individuals wearing them.

Contents

	Introduction	04
1.	Classification	05
2.	Pottery	09
3.	Metal Craft	16
4.	Woodcraft	23
5.	Ethnic Jewellery	28
6.	Textiles	35
7.	Traditional Toys	43
8.	Stone Craft	46
9.	Leather Craft	48
10.	Ethnic Paintings	50
11.	Carpets/Floorings	54
12.	Handmade Paper	57
13.	Jute Craft	63