A BRIEF HISTORY OF INDIAN HANDICRAFTS

Indian Handicrafts

Introduction to Indian Handicrafts:

Handicrafts are amongst the oldest traditions in the world. Among the many handicrafts around the world, Indian Handicrafts Items goes back to one of the oldest civilisations in the world, the Indus Valley Civilization.

The handicrafts industry in India flourished, during the mediaeval period, and continued to grow until the beginning of British came India. After the arrival of the British, and other colonial powers in India, the handicrafts industry struggled to keep up with the foreign market. As the handicrafts industry was entirely based on the skills of one’s hands, it took time and hard work to complete a creation. As a result, the price of which it was to be sold was also high. But the machine made British goods, were cheaper, and soon people began to drift towards the British market.

History Of Some Handicrafts Of India:

There are lots of different types of handicrafts in India. But in this blog, we are going to talk about the three most important and famous handicrafts of India. So without any further addon, let us begin:

At the first place on our list is the handicraft which has been present since the dawn of the human civilisation. Yes, you guessed it right, we are talking about Paintings.

Since the prehistoric time, paintings have been a part of the culture of India. Paintings in caves are quite common.

The Indian paintings such as the likes of Thangka Paintings, Miniatures paintings, Wallis paintings, Madhubani paintings, and Tanjore paintings are now the greatest temptations of an art freak.

The painting styles of the handicrafts industry of Ind changed with time and the dynasty which ruled India.

The second handicraft on our list is Stone Work. For centuries, the stonework of the Indian craftsmen, and sculptures have been praised by people from all over the world.

These works are of great functional and aesthetic value. Since the ancient times, the ships have been famous for conceptualising the intricate patterns and designs that were crafted into the temples across India.

Apart from the carvings on the walls of the famous temple, there are a lot of caves which are famous for their carvings as well.

This handicraft mainly flourished in the medieval period, when the Kings of India, took a special interest in arts. A huge chunk of the royal treasury was spent on temples and caves, and the sculptors were paid handsomely for their efforts.

Traditionally the artists first came up with the design, which was then carefully carved onto the walls of the caves, and temples.

The third place on our list goes to Wooden Handicrafts. Many would argue with our decision to put Wood work at a third place, but we are judging the importance of the handicrafts since their inception, and it is clear that the Stone Works have a better case. But having said that the Wood Crafts of India, is also quite famous.

These handicrafts items started a bit late. As people began to understand that the surface of wood can be carved, and chiselled, wood instantly became a medium for handicrafts. As time passed on, the handicraft got more refined. This art was literally inherited by the artisans form all across the country.

Soon all types of wood and woody material were being used to make pieces of art. Wood from trees, along with bamboos, were extensively used.

The Importance of Handicrafts:

The Cultural Importance:

Handicrafts play very important role in representing the culture and traditions of any country or region. Handicrafts are a substantial medium to preserve of rich traditional art, heritage and culture, traditional skills and talents which are associated with people’s lifestyle and history.

The Economic Importance:

Handicrafts are hugely important in terms of economic development. They provide ample opportunities for employment even with low capital investments and become a prominent medium for foreign earnings.