Draft:Molela teracotta art
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Comment: wikipedia was used as one of the sources; potential use of LLM (many subsections, language, not good coverage) NiftyyyNofteeeee (talk) 13:09, 6 May 2025 (UTC)
Molela Terracotta Art is a distinctive form of terracotta relief work originating from Molela, a village in the Rajsamand district of Rajasthan, India. This craft is renowned for its hand-molded clay plaques depicting local deities, mythological scenes, and aspects of rural life. Traditionally created by the Kumhar community, these plaques serve both religious and decorative purposes.
History
[edit]The origins of Molela Terracotta Art trace back several centuries, deeply rooted in the cultural practices of the region. According to local legend, a blind potter from Molela dreamt of the deity Devnarayan, who instructed him to create his image in clay. Upon doing so, the potter's sight was miraculously restored. This event led to the tradition of crafting terracotta plaques depicting deities, a practice that continues to this day.[1]
Techniques and materials
[edit]Artisans use locally sourced alluvial clay mixed with cow dung to create the base material. The clay is hand-molded into rectangular plaques, and intricate designs are sculpted in low relief without the use of a potter's wheel. After sun-drying, the plaques are fired in traditional kilns. While some pieces retain the natural terracotta hue, others are painted with natural pigments to enhance their visual appeal.[2]
Cultural significance
[edit]Molela terracotta plaques hold significant religious value, especially among tribal communities like the Bhils and Garasiyas. These communities travel to Molela annually to commission plaques of their revered deities, which are then installed in local shrines. The art form not only serves spiritual purposes but also reinforces community identity and continuity of tradition.[3]
Contemporary developments
[edit]In recent years, artisans have expanded the scope of Molela Terracotta Art beyond traditional religious themes. Contemporary pieces include decorative murals and panels that cater to modern aesthetic sensibilities. Notable artists like Padma Shri awardee Mohan Lal Kumhar have played a pivotal role in innovating and promoting this craft on national and international platforms.[2]
Challenges
[edit]Despite its rich heritage, Molela Terracotta Art faces challenges such as declining demand, competition from mass-produced alternatives, and the fragility of the clay plaques, which makes transportation difficult. Additionally, younger generations are increasingly reluctant to continue the family tradition, posing a threat to the craft's sustainability.[4]
Recognition
[edit]Molela Terracotta Art has been recognized in India's National List for Intangible Cultural Heritage under the category of "Hingan: Votive Terracotta Painted Plaque of Molela." This acknowledgment underscores the cultural and artistic significance of the craft.[5][circular reference]
References
[edit]- ^ "Molela Terracotta". Gaatha. Retrieved 6 May 2025.
- ^ a b "About Molela Terracotta". Molela Clay Works. Retrieved 6 May 2025.
- ^ "The Exceptional Terracottas of Molela". Peepul Tree. Retrieved 6 May 2025.
- ^ "Legacy of Timeless Indigenous Traditional Handcrafted Molela Terracotta Plaques" (PDF). Amoghvarta. Retrieved 6 May 2025.
- ^ "National List for Intangible Cultural Heritage". Wikipedia. Retrieved 6 May 2025.
External links
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