A well known traditional craft of Jaipur, blue pottery came to the pink city only in the 17th century. Blue pottery, a cherished craft of Rajasthan, is renowned for its vivid colors and intricate designs. Originating from Persia, it found its home in the royal courts of Jaipur and has since become a symbol of Rajasthani culture and artistry.
Before you bring this exquisite art into your home, it’s essential to understand its history, types, and the factors to consider when buying blue pottery. This guide will help you make an informed choice, ensuring that you select the perfect pieces to add beauty and tradition to your space.
What is Blue Pottery?
Blue pottery is a distinctive form of traditional Indian pottery that is known for its eye-catching blue hues and intricate designs. Unlike other forms of pottery, blue pottery is made from a unique blend of quartz, glass, and natural dyes, which give it a smooth, glossy finish. The colors used are often derived from cobalt oxide and copper oxide, which are responsible for the characteristic blue and green shades. This pottery does not use clay, making it fragile yet more resistant to chipping than ordinary ceramic.
The Process Of Blue Pottery
A consistent dough is prepared using the above-mentioned ingredients (borax, quartz stone powder, etc.) which is, later on, flattened using a traditional wooden tool called thepai. After making the dough section uniformly flat like a chapati, the dough is placed into moulds to make the desired shapes. For bigger pieces, it is preferred to use two or more moulds and stick them together using more clay and water. Instead of heating in a kiln, these new moulds are mostly kept in sun for 2-3 days to harden.
Once the articles are baked well, they acquire a sturdy form which is ready to be smoothened. The first step includes rubbing with sandpaper which is followed by immersing the article in a liquid solution to get rid of irregularities. After the immersing in the said solution, the article is again immersed in a solution of quartz powder, powdered glass and maida. This step ensures that the articles do not break easily. This step is again followed by rubbing with sandpaper to give the article a smooth texture.
Now comes the painting. Most of the blue pottery painters paint motifs inspired by the flora and fauna. Oxides and ferro metals are widely used with a binding gum to ensure that the paint doesn’t wear off. These colours give a stunning glow after being heated in a kiln.
After the paint is dried, the process of glazing begins. For this, a glaze solution is prepared using borax, zinc oxide, boric acid and potassium nitrate. This composition is heated at a high temperature which is followed by its cooling down in cold water. The solution undergoes a chemical reaction, giving rise to frits and these frits are finally mixed with cold water to form glaze. Glazing is evenly done with a thick coat to give a matte finish. Once the articles dry up, they are ready to be heated in a furnace.
Heating or firing takes place in a kiln for about 4-5 hours after which the kiln remains untouched to cool down for 2-3 days before removing the articles. In this process, some articles break while others come out as finished product
Types of Blue Pottery Items
Here are the types of blue pottery items:
1. Blue Pottery Vase
This handcrafted blue pottery vase is adorned with intricate floral patterns in vibrant blue and white. Perfect as a standalone piece or as part of a decorative ensemble, it adds a touch of elegance to any room. The smooth glaze finish enhances its visual appeal, making it a timeless addition to your home decor.
2. Blue Pottery Wall Plate
This stunning wall plate features traditional Rajasthani motifs in vivid blue, green, and white hues. Ideal for wall decor, this piece showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of Jaipur's artisans. Whether displayed alone or as part of a collection, it brings a cultural flair to your living space.
3. Blue Pottery Coasters
These beautifully crafted coasters come in a set of four, each featuring unique hand-painted designs. Made from durable blue pottery, they protect your furniture while adding a splash of color to your dining or coffee table. Their intricate patterns make them not just functional but also a conversation starter.
4. Blue Pottery Tea Set
Elevate your tea-time experience with this elegant blue pottery tea set. The set includes a teapot, four cups, and a matching tray, all featuring delicate floral designs in blue and white. This set is perfect for serving guests or for your own moments of relaxation, blending tradition with everyday functionality.
5. Blue Pottery Doorknobs
Add a touch of artisanal charm to your doors and cabinets with these blue pottery doorknobs. Available in a variety of shapes and patterns, these knobs are not just practical but also add a decorative element to your interiors. Their smooth finish and vibrant colors make them a unique choice for enhancing your home decor.
6. Blue Pottery Bowls
These handcrafted bowls come in various sizes and feature classic blue and white floral designs. Perfect for serving snacks, salads, or even as decorative pieces, these bowls combine functionality with aesthetic appeal. Their smooth glaze and intricate patterns reflect the rich heritage of Rajasthani craftsmanship.
Blue Pottery at Rajasthani Haat
On our visit to Jaipur, we couldn’t get our eyes off the beautiful lanes selling delicate pieces of blue pottery. After spending a quarter of our day exploring eye-catching products of blue pottery, we set off to meet our nationally awarded master artisan. His workshop reflected all sorts of possible colours and we knew that we have to be the mediator to get these shades adorned in the homes of our connoisseurs of art.
Final Thoughts
Blue pottery is more than just an art form; it’s a piece of Rajasthani heritage that brings history, culture, and beauty into your home. By understanding the intricacies of this craft and considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make an informed decision and choose the perfect blue pottery items for your space. Explore the exquisite collection at Rajasthani Haat and bring home a piece of this timeless art.