Earthernware of Haryana
History
Around 5000 years ago, one of the earliest skills developed by man was the handling of clay. He kneaded the soft alluvial clay with his hands and coiled it into containers for his use. He also moulded lumps of clay with his hand to create toys for children amusement. Later he discovered the use of wheel. The movement of the wheel and pressure of his hands helped him to create forms.
Techniques Used
The wheel is the common kind, thick with short spokes, turning on a pivot of hard wood or metal, provided with a large hub, acting as a revolving table. The impulsion is given by hand with a vertical stick inserted in a hole in the rim. The potter throws the painstakingly kneaded clay into the centre of the wheel, rounding at off, then spins the wheel around with a stick. As the whirling gathers momentum, he begins to shape the clay into the form he wants. When finished, he severs the shaped bit from the rest of the clay skillfully with a string. The firing in the country side is mostly done in the open in improvised kilns with in a simple hollowed circular area, with the articles just plied up and covered by cowdung cakes, the cheapest available fuel. The quality or beauty of the products is not affected however. Wood being costly some established potters may use wooden pieces or shavings.
Design & Styles
Haryana has its own distinctive style in pottery. Jhajjar in Haryana make slim-necked water containers known as surahis, which are half turned and half moulded. It has a variety of patterns of rosettes and flowing designs, with gargoyle type heads for spouts.
Common Materials Used
Clay, chak (potteris wheel)
Popular Products
Kulhar, grain storage, water jars, toys, lamps, wall panels etc.
