Terracotta of Tripura
History
Pottery has a wide universality and its tradition goes back to span of five millenium. This craft came via Persia, when Mongal king Chengiz Khan had conquered China in AD 1212. The main concentration of the craft is in the sub divisions of Kailasahar Sadar (Golbazar) and Soonamurah.
Techniques Used
The clay mixed with ash and sand is kneaded by feet, collected and cut with lahasur. It is then kneaded with hand on peeda and a lump is made. All the solid particles are removed. The ready clay is kept on wheel to make various forms. A potters wheel has short spokes, turns on a pivot of hard wood or metal and is provided with a large hub which acts as a revolving table. A vertical stick is inserted in the hole in the rim. The potter throws the kneaded clay into the centre of the wheel and spins the wheel around with a stick. Due to the centrifugal force, the lump of clay is pulled outwards and upwards and shaped into a vessel. This is pulled out with a string, dried in the potters kiln. Clay article after firing turns to terracotta.
Design & Styles
Terracotta articles, including toys are produced as ritual items for decoration and for utility through out the state. The other crafts made are incense burners, toys , dolls and figurines etc.
Common Materials Used
Plastic clay mitti, mustard oil, potters wheel, edible gum, starch, feldspar, clay, wax
Popular Products
Toys, ritual items, incense burners, dolls, figurines.
