Figure of Saint

National Crafts Museum & Hastkala Academy

Title : Figure of Saint

Accession No : 53/4/49(10)

This is a painted clay figure of a saint. He is wearing a saffron coloured cotton Dhoti. He is standing on square base. Looking at it, it seems as if it is singing bhajan.

Gallery

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Source

  • RepositoryNational Crafts Museum and Hastkala Academy
  • CollectionMuseum Collection

Provenance

  • CountryIndia
  • StateWest Bengal
  • DistrictNadia

Period

  • Start Date20th century

Condition

  • ConditionPoor
  • RemarksTorn, Dark Stain, Damaged
  • Action NoteCNR

Dimensions

  • Measurement (CMS)17X5.5X6
  • Weight (GRMS)0.00

Significance

  • ArtisticThe clay images of Krishnanagar are well known for their realistic appearance, and the detailed and intricate miniatures are created with clothes and accessories. They represent a breakaway from the traditional form since the 18th century. The craftsmen belong to the caste of Kumbhakar or potters. Ghurni in Krishnanagar has a concentration of potters. Krishnanagar is on the banks of Jalangi River and the clay is brought from the riverbed. Fine clay dolls are also produced which represent all professions and trades in minute detail, replete with costume and accessories. The figurines are made in parts and assembled together. Plaster of Paris moulds are used to cast different body parts when the figurines are made in larger quantities. A metal wire is used for support and reinforcement in the clay models. They are fired in a kiln and painted with poster or water colours.

Description

  • DescriptionThis is a painted clay figure of a saint. He is wearing a saffron coloured cotton Dhoti. He is standing on square base. Looking at it, it seems as if it is singing bhajan.
  • Inscription/Markings No
  • Relation10 of 14
  • Reference"Ranjan, Aditi. Handmade in India: Crafts of India. Edited by Aditi Ranjan & M. P. Ranjan. Ahmedabad: Council of Handicraft Development Corporations, 2007. Chattopadhaya, KaMaladevi. Handicrafts of India. New Delhi: Indian Council for Cultural Research, 1975."
  • KeywordClay, Terracotta, Saint, Painted