Absolutely astounding and unique in concept, colour and workmanship,
the art and handicrafts of Rajasthan are beyond comparison. Be
it jewellery, painting, furniture, leatherware, pottery, metal
craft or hand-printed textiles, each object has a penetrating
and irresistible appeal. An ethnic aura envelopes even the simplest
of forms, making each one truly a collectors delight. Rajasthan,
popularly known as the ‘treasure trove of Indian & ‘shoppers’
paradise’, has been able to preserve its craft despite several
ups and downs. Its rich heritage has played an important role
in the economy of the state. The glittering jewellery and attractive
handicrafts of Rajasthan have caught the fantasy of the people
abroad and earned rich dividends.
Jwellery
The artistic delicacy and elaborateness in the manufacturing of
Rajasthani jewellery made of purest and finest materials is world-renowned.
Rajasthan became famous for its jewellery industry from very early
times, being an important source of precious and semi precious
stones. Sophisticated jewellery, set with precious stones using
the ‘Kundankari’ technique, or decorated with bright
enamel work, known as ‘minakari’, were made for the
Rajput courtiers and affluent people. Skillful artisans from Lahore,
Delhi, Gujarat, and Bengal, attracted by the liberal patronage
of the kings, came to work in Jaipur, Bikaner, Udaipur and Jodhpur
. Jaipur is the centre for gold ‘kundan’ work and
a renowned centre for diamond and emerald cutting. The temple
market at Nathdwara is the best place to buy silver ‘kundan’
and ‘meenakari’ work. Old silver jewellery, which
is much in vogue, can be bought in Jaisalmer in every nook and
corner of the small bazaar area. Pratapgarh in Chittaurgarh district
is famous for ‘thewa’ jewellery .The red, green, or
blue foil below highlights the intricate gold work in the best
possible manner.
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Jewellery
| Leatherware
| Paintings
| Puppets
| Metal Craft
| Stone Craft
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