Traditional Crafts

Basket Weaving and Mat Making
The tribals do most of the basketry and mat making work in Madhya Pradesh. The tribals, to reflect their art and culture have used cane and bamboo since ancient times. The materials used for basket, mat weaving and cane work are simple and found in abundance. Locally available natural material like grass, reeds, leaves etc is used for mat and basket making. Jute, coir and bamboo are also used in basketry and in making mats. Madhya Pradesh is known for their basket weaving and mat making traditions. The production of cane furniture is on the rise these days.

Clay Crafts and Pottery
Madhya Pradesh has a tradition of clay crafts, toys, and pottery throughout the country. Terracotta work is centered in the state of Madhya Pradesh.

Painting
Painting is one of the earliest known activities of man and India is no exception to that. The earliest known paintings are found in the Bhimbetka caves in Madhya Pradesh. Madhya Pradesh has its own unique painting styles.

Papier-Mâché
Papier-mâché articles are made of waste paper and are molded according to requirement. A large number of utilitarian items are made from Papier-mâché. Boxes, trays, pots, toys, vases and other articles, etc are made of Papier-mâché in Madhya Pradesh and then they are painted in bright colors. Large items also have gold and silver leaf applied to them.

Woodcarving and Stone Carving
The craftsmen of Madhya Pradesh have perfected carving in all its manifestations using a variety of raw materials ranging from wood, stone, horn, coconut shell etc. Exquisite woodcarvings depicting gods and goddesses and mythological figures are a common place amongst the carved wood products. The material varies from walnut, redwood, sandalwood and teak etc. Stone carving too is popular around this state and is practiced throughout the country.

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