Unflashed Indian handicrafts history

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These are Gypsy jewelry which belly dancers use to wear it all along dancing while. It makes sweet sound while going merry go round. All Jewelry of belly dancing are available at best prices. Click on Jewelry photos to view in larger image.

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The HISTORY OF INDIAN HANDICRAFTS is as old as human civilization in India, the oldest handicraft can be traced to period of Indus Valley Civilization (3000 BC to 1600 BC). The handicrafts history, as such, does not originate because of art and crafts pursuits, but because of needs of human beings which when answered, led to use of artistic and cultural flairs. The need of common man as well as the chieftains and royalty were made, naturally with hands in those times, with artistic mindset for choice of raw-materials, shapes and size, colors and contrast expressing use and richness. Sculpture made of metal, stone and terracotta, potteries, jewelry, weaving were few handicrafts practiced during Indus Valley Civilization as evident from archeological studies. During this period, the flow of Indian crafts also started to the Arabian cultures via ancient sea -routes.

The Vedic period had the maximum impact on Indian culture as it had set an ever- evolving process for the mankind evident in the civilizations to follow. The Vedas written during that period referred to artisans, craftsman and weavers, and the various products like potteries made of wood, metal and clay, and sculptures made of same materials.

With the Mauryan Empire setting in 3rd century BC, the pursuits for crafts made from hands for religious and cultural purpose was on increase. During time of Ashoka some 80,000 stupas were built including the famous and known Sanchi Stupa. Making and use of jewelry during this period set a new trend in this craft even followed in present times. The royal lifestyle and growth of different religious sects introduced art and craft in palaces, temples, community places and even homes of rich and famous. Use of metal by way of crafts was not restricted to jewelry only but was also used in pieces of décor, pillars, crowns, and weaponry.

The Indian handicrafts got a wind of change towards more varied designs and styles, use of varied raw materials, when the foreign invasions from central Asia rocked India. The sculptures found in North Western frontier of Indian subcontinent in form of Gautam Buddha sculputure speaks about western influence including Greek culture. Weaving, textile, leather goods, metal work and jewelry of that age reflect signs of western influence.

The Gupta period from 320 to 647 AD was the golden or classical period in Indian History. As referred there was major boost to handicrafts and respect for people engaged in arts and crafts. The live example of golden glory is still found in the caves of Ajanta and Ellora. The royalty encouraged development of this activity and the results were for the better. The period after Guptas showed a shift southwards, where the Chola Dynasty and Vijaynagaram empires were known for fine arts and crafts used in palaces, temples, stone carving and cave-carvings. Jaganath Temple of Puri and Khajuraho caves relate to that period.

When the Gupta period was Golden in terms of Indian History, the Mughal empire from 1400 to 1650 AD was Golden for the Indian Handicrafts. Not only the designs and raw materials used for crafts were different and new, but also the technique and style. The Taj Mahal , the peacock throne were the cream of such developments. The jewels and jewelry, glass engravings, miniature paintings, Rajasthan paintings, kutchi jewelry all started during this period. Inlay work, carpet weaving, enameled jewelry also was very popular.

The Indian handicrafts have seen different times, have been influenced by different religious and cultural streams, and the traditions of crafts is still carried on for which the demand is world over. The rich history and tradition of crafts is still relevant in the Indian Household, and in many communities the use of crafts is for artistic pursuits and also as a source of occupation

The Indian handicrafts got a wind of change towards more varied designs and styles, use of varied raw materials, when the foreign invasions from central Asia rocked India. The sculptures found in North Western frontier of Indian subcontinent in form of Gautam Buddha sculputure speaks about western influence including Greek culture. Weaving, textile, leather goods, metal work, hand made embroidery and jewelry of that age reflect signs of western influence.