Handicrafts History

Craft History

India has a very rich craft tradition which is characterized by high aesthetics and diverse art.Intricate design patterns painfully designed monuments, temples and sculptures, which are all great masterpieces of craftsmanship. All Indian crafts and design were mostly depictions of everyday life, socio-political conditions and the castle and the court scenes. Archaeological studies have revealed that the period of manufacture, of any handicraft item can be deciphered from its production techniques, design and materials. 

Indians Handicrafts history can be traced back to as old as, the Stone Age. The art of spinning and weaving of cotton was known Harrappans was known for 5000 years ago. Foundations of textiles in other countries dates back to the second century BC. Block print fabric, mainly in Gujarat region, found in Egyptian tombs is a proof that India was producing enough cotton textiles to import them to other countries in the Middle Ages. 

Even the Vedas have references to the craftsmen who are involved in pottery making, weaving, wood crafting etc. Rig Veda in particular refers to a variety of pottery made of clay, wood and metal. It also refers to weavers and weaving. Craft history shows that Indian handicrafts flourished during the Mauryan empire. Nearly 85,000 stupas were built in India, including the Sanchi Stupa and various sculptures of Bharhut, Mathura, Amravati and Vaishali under Ashoka's rule. Although iron pillars Vaishali and Delhi, was created in the same age. The Gupta Age, so construction of the rock cut temples of Ellora and Ajanta Caves. Artisans in this period, under royal patronage excelled in jewelry making, Woodcarving, sculpture, stone carving material and weaving materials. 

Indian Arts and Crafts in each age to reflect the culture, traditions and happenings of that era. Every year, each dynasty, each empire has its influence and importance in the vessel, belonging to those times, thus making India's diverse cultural heritage and culturally rich. 

Indian Handicrafts distinguished for their aesthetic value and myriad designs. They have been perfected over centuries. Interestingly, the tools used today were in use as early as the Stone Age. Excavations have revealed a whole world of engineering and design, followed by our ancestors, and they remain unsurpassed to date. 

The ceramics from the Neolithic age reflects the remarkable development of Handicrafts in painting and design work. For centuries Indians have woven a rich tradition of such splendor and aesthetic beauty that Indian handicraft has been one of the most coveted art world. 

Development of tools and processes for the vessel is a sensitive area. The traditional methods are backed by centuries of expertise. However, processes with less mechanization should be introduced which would facilitate the preparation of the basic shape, decorations are done. 

All India Handicrafts Board assisted the State Governments in setting up their design and engineering centers in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Kashmir, Rajasthan, Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Orissa, Manipur, Tripura, Haryana, West Bengal and Goa. In these centers, communities, artisans and artists working with new designs and products in selected crafts. 

These artists seek to combine the traditional with the modern. Craft items are carefully designed so that it preserves the ethnic value, while they can be translated into contemporary use.Designers need to remember the changing needs of consumers, particularly in foreign markets.High goods prices are sometimes a barrier to their sale. Moreover, imitation products are cheaper and more accessible.

Cloth Painting:

Styles and techniques vary from India to vibrant colors and themes to bring life into the most artistic considerations India painted on the cloth.

Design and development:

As technology develops, produces cheaper products in less time, the Indian craftsmen are struggling to keep alive the timeless pieces of traditional crafts.

Floor Paintings:

Floor paintings are an integral part of Indian traditions. These are made on favorable occasions and as a sign of welcome when drawn on the door.

Handmade paper:

Indian handmade paper offers a broad range of designs that are very attractive. Only appeal of the product has given the industry a significant boost.

Kashmiri Rugs:

Kashmiri carpets have a worldwide appeal for their classic embroidery styles. The floor mats are so beautiful that they are also used as wall hangings.

Ceramic Industry:

Hands of the Indian villager Potter dies with the most exquisite works of clay, while his own life is still uncertain.