The Bankura district of West Bengal is home to a hub of terracotta artisans. Terracotta, in Italian, meaning baked earth, is an art form that dates back to the early Indus Valley Civilization. The earth used in this art form is generally reddish brown or brown in colour.
Panchmura, a village near Bankura is home to some artisan families who have crafted pieces that are simple yet dynamic and have their inspiration from some of the religious folklore of the region. The terracotta crafts made by these families also include home decor items and jewellery pieces.
In this blog, we will look at some of the popular examples of terracotta crafts that are available at The Bengal Store.
The Ek Chala Thakur is a depiction of the Goddess Durga and her children against one backdrop. It is an exquisite art form that is particularly beautiful and the depiction of the Goddess and her children is something that looks fresh and crisp. With Durga Puja coming up soon, you can buy this popular depiction in terracotta for your home as a centerpiece or as a gift for a loved one.
Buy from: https://www.thebengalstore.com/crafts/terracotta/terracotta-durga
The terracotta depiction of an owl is something that is simple yet significant in meaning. The owl is considered a holy “bahaan” or ride of the Goddess Lakshmi. It is seen as a simple of wealth and prosperity. You can purchase this piece for yourself or as a gift for a loved one. The owl is a good luck charm for your home.
Buy from: https://www.thebengalstore.com/crafts/terracotta/terracotta-owl-big
The Kothakoli horse has a unique history and tradition associated with it. In the region of Rath, where Dharmathakur is worshipped, this horse represents a sacrifice on wish fulfillment. This concept is unique to this region and the Kothakoli horse has had significance since. It is one of the prime examples of terracotta crafts.
Buy from: https://www.thebengalstore.com/crafts/terracotta/kothakoli-horse
Bonga Hathi is a round-shaped elephant that boasts a uniquely shaped trunk. It has remarkable overall symmetry and is a very adorable-looking piece of terracotta craft. The Bonga Hathi is heavily decorated reminiscent of the elephants and horses of the Malla kingdom. The Bonga Hathi makes for a very beautiful present.
Buy from: https://www.thebengalstore.com/crafts/terracotta/bonga-hathi
The Bankura horse or the Bankura Ghora is a unique terracotta offering from the State of Bengal. These horses embody dynamism, with their erect ears and necks. Apart from these, the horses are crafted ornately, with embellished eyebrows and foreheads. The chandmala is also used to add a touch of decoration to the Bankura horse.
Buy from: https://www.thebengalstore.com/crafts/terracotta/bankura-horse
A Sankha has a lot of symbolism and ritual importance in Hinduism. It is depicted as a giver of fame, longevity, and prosperity, and is also viewed as a cleanser of sin. Unlike the traditional Sankha, which is made of the conch shell, this is purely a terracotta product. Buy as a home decor product or as a product for gifting.
Buy from: https://www.thebengalstore.com/crafts/terracotta/terracotta-shankha
Choose terracotta crafts for your home this festive season. These products are beautifully crafted and make for elegant home decor and gifting purposes. Invest in a few pieces this season and add a touch of sparkle to your home.
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