India has a rich and diverse heritage of pottery and ceramic art that dates back to thousands of years. Pottery and ceramics are not just objects of utility or beauty; they are also expressions of culture, history, and creativity. In this blog post, we will explore the history of ceramics in India from ancient times to modern days, and see how this art form has evolved over the centuries.
Ancient pottery and ceramic art
The earliest evidence of pottery and ceramic art in India comes from the Indus Valley Civilization, one of the world’s oldest urban civilizations that flourished around 2500 BCE. The pottery from this era is remarkable for its fine craftsmanship and artistic designs. The pots were often decorated with geometric patterns and motifs of animals and humans, reflecting the society and beliefs of the time. The potters also used various techniques such as wheel throwing, coiling, pinching, and moulding to create different shapes and forms.
One of the most striking features of ceramic art from this era is the terracotta figurines. These figurines, often shaped like humans or animals, were used for religious or ritual purposes, or as toys or ornaments. They show a high degree of realism and expression, and reveal a lot about the culture and customs of the Harappan people.
Around 1500 BCE, the Aryan culture introduced the wheel to pottery making, revolutionizing the process and leading to more uniform and symmetrical designs. The pottery of this period, often referred to as ‘Red and Black’ ware, is distinguished by its deep red and black hues. The pots were usually plain or had simple designs such as lines or dots. The red colour was achieved by using iron oxide, while the black colour was obtained by reducing the oxygen supply during firing.
The Mauryan era (322–185 BCE) marked a significant milestone in the evolution of Indian pottery and ceramic art. The pottery of this period, known as ‘Northern Black Polished Ware’ or NBPW, is renowned for its glossy finish that shimmers like a dark mirror. The pots were made of fine clay and polished with an iron-rich slip before firing. The NBPW pottery was mostly used for storing liquids or serving food, and was considered a symbol of luxury and status.
Ceramic art in this period also reached new heights with the creation of exquisite sculptures and architectural elements in terracotta and stucco. These include the famous Ashoka pillars, which have animal capitals carved in stone or metal, but are supported by terracotta bases. The terracotta sculptures from this era show a remarkable diversity of styles and subjects, ranging from Buddhist figures to animals to erotic scenes.
Medieval pottery and ceramic art
One of the most prominent styles of pottery in this period was ‘Red Ware’, which originated in northern India but spread to other parts of the country as well. Red Ware pottery was made of red clay and had a variety of decorations such as incised, stamped, appliqued, or painted designs. The motifs included floral, geometric, animal, human, and religious themes. Red Ware pottery was used for both domestic and ritual purposes.
The medieval period (600–1200 CE) witnessed a great expansion and diversification of pottery and ceramic art in India. This was due to various factors such as trade, migration, conquest, and cultural exchange. Different regions developed their own styles and techniques, influenced by local traditions as well as foreign cultures.
One of the most prominent styles of pottery in this period was ‘Red Ware’, which originated in northern India but spread to other parts of the country as well. Red Ware pottery was made of red clay and had a variety of decorations such as incised, stamped, appliqued, or painted designs. The motifs included floral, geometric, animal, human, and religious themes. Red Ware pottery was used for both domestic and ritual purposes.
Ceramic art in this period also reached new heights with the creation of exquisite sculptures and architectural elements in terracotta and stucco. These include the famous Ashoka pillars, which have animal capitals carved in stone or metal, but are supported by terracotta bases. The terracotta sculptures from this era show a remarkable diversity of styles and subjects, ranging from Buddhist figures to animals to erotic scenes.
Prevalent styles and techniques
Throughout the centuries, Indian pottery and ceramic art have developed various styles and techniques that reflect the diversity and richness of this art form. Some of the most prevalent styles and techniques are:
– Terracotta: This is one of the oldest and most common forms of pottery in India. Terracotta is made by shaping clay into desired forms and firing it at low temperatures. Terracotta pottery is usually unglazed or coated with slips or paints. Terracotta pottery is widely used for making figurines, toys, lamps, vessels, sculptures, tiles, etc.
– Glazed: This is a technique of applying a thin layer of glass-like substance over pottery to make it waterproof, shiny, and colorful. Glazed pottery was introduced in India by foreign invaders such as Persians, Turks, Mughals, etc. Glazed pottery is often decorated with floral or geometric patterns or calligraphy. Some of the most famous examples of glazed pottery in India are blue pottery from Jaipur, khurja pottery from Uttar Pradesh, kutch pottery from Gujarat, etc.
– Stoneware: This is a type of pottery that is fired at high temperatures (above 1200°C) to make it hard, dense, and durable. Stoneware pottery is usually glazed or salt-fired to give it a smooth surface. Stoneware pottery is used for making tableware, cookware,
