Original folk art of West Bengal
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![Shop Sheetala Mata in Kalighat by Hasir Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Dancing Couple (Babu and Bibi) in Kalighat by Hasir Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Krishna and Yashoda in Kalighat by Hasir Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Rani, Senapati and Dasi (Queen, commander and attendant) in Kalighat by Hasir Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Krishna and Radha in Kalighat by Hasir Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Goddess Lakshmi seated on owl in Kalighat by Hasir Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Shiva and Parvati with Ganesha (Shiv Parivaar) in Kalighat by Hasir Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Serene Ramayana (Rama, Sita and Laxman) in Kalighat by Hasir Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Maa Saraswati with a Swan in Kalighat by Hasir Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Rama and Sita in Bengal Pattachitra by Manoranjan Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Maa Durga and Lord Ganesha in Bengal Pattachitra by Manoranjan Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Hanuman tears open his chest to reveal the presence of Ram and Sita in Bengal Pattachitra by Laila Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Saraswati in Bengal Pattachitra by Laila Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Maa Durga in Bengal Pattachitra by Laila Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Mahabharata in Wooden Mask by Paramesh Sarkar]()
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![Shop Shiva-Pravati in Wooden Mask by Paramesh Sarkar]()
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![Shop Ramayana in Wooden Mask by Paramesh Sarkar]()
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![Shop Woman in Wooden Mask by Paramesh Sarkar]()
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![Shop Woman and Nature in Wooden Mask by Paramesh Sarkar]()
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![Shop Woman in Wooden Mask by Paramesh Sarkar]()
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![Shop Mother Nature in Kalighat by Uttam Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Two Musicians in Kalighat by Uttam Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Man and Woman in Kalighat by Uttam Chitrakar]()
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![Shop A Woman in Bengal Pattachitra by Laila Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Ganesha in Bengal Pattachitra by Laila Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Royal Love in Bengal Pattachitra by Laila Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Man and Woman in Bengal Pattachitra by Lalita Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Woman Dancing with a Swan in Kalighat by Uttam Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Babu Bibi in Kalighat by Uttam Chitrakar]()
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![Shop Babu Bibi as Tigers in Kalighat by Uttam Chitrakar]()
About West Bengal's Arts and Paintings
West Bengal, known as the "Cultural Capital of India," is a state renowned for its vibrant arts and crafts scene. From vibrant paintings to intricate crafts, Bengal's art forms reflect a blend of tradition, creativity, and profound storytelling.
Kalighat Painting
Kalighat painting emerged around the Kalighat Kali Temple in Kolkata during the 19th century. Initially serving as mementos for pilgrims, these paintings evolved into a distinct style influenced by European watercolor techniques and local themes.
Kalighat artists used inexpensive paper or cloth as their canvas, applying natural dyes and watercolors.
Known for their bold lines and vibrant colors, Kalighat paintings often depict mythological figures, daily life scenes, and social satire. They capture the essence of Bengali culture with simplicity and narrative depth.
Nakshi Kantha Embroidery
Nakshi Kantha embroidery originated in rural Bengal, particularly in Nadia, Murshidabad, and Jessore. Traditionally, women stitched Kanthas using old sarees and dhotis, layering them with intricate running stitches to create quilts and covers.
Embroidery is typically done on cotton or silk fabric using colored threads, often recycled from old garments. Natural dyes derived from plants and minerals were traditionally used to color the threads.
Nakshi Kantha is renowned for its meticulous needlework and storytelling motifs. The embroidery features geometric patterns, floral designs, animals, birds, and scenes from everyday life, each piece reflecting the personal narrative and artistic prowess of the maker.
Patachitra Painting
Patachitra paintings have their roots in the Medinipur and Bardhaman districts of West Bengal. The term "Patachitra" comes from "Pata," meaning cloth, and "Chitra," meaning picture. These paintings are deeply rooted in local folk culture and religious traditions.
Patachitra paintings are executed on cloth or dried palm leaves using natural colors derived from minerals, vegetables, and plants. Brushes made from animal hair and black ink from lamp soot mixed with tamarind seed gum are used for outlining.
Characterized by bold lines and vibrant colors, Patachitra paintings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, particularly stories of gods and goddesses like Krishna, Durga, and Radha-Krishna. The paintings blend traditional motifs with artistic creativity, capturing the spiritual essence and cultural ethos of Bengal.
West Bengal's art and craft traditions reflect the state's cultural diversity and its deep-rooted connection with literature, music, and theater. The master artists and craftsmen have played a vital role in preserving and reviving these traditional art forms, ensuring that West Bengal continues to be a hub of creativity and artistic expression.
FAQS
Are the artworks on your website authentic?
We work closely with artisans and local communities to ensure that each piece is genuine, reflecting traditional techniques and cultural significance.
Can I learn more about the artisans behind the artwork?
Absolutely! We provide detailed profiles and stories of the artisans on our platform, highlighting their backgrounds, craftsmanship, and the cultural context of their art forms. This personal connection enhances the appreciation of each artwork.
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Yes, we ship globally! Whether you're in India or abroad, you can enjoy the beauty of Indian art and craft through our convenient international shipping options.
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By purchasing artworks from our website, you directly support artisans and their communities. Additionally, sharing their stories and spreading awareness about their craftsmanship helps sustain these ancient traditions for future generations.
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