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Udaipur Handicrafts

Traditionally rulers of Udaipur were patrons of art and culture. During their rule a lot of painters flourished. A lot of paintings of royal activities such as Darbar, festivals, hunting, various religious and social ceremonies and sports were prepared during that period. At almost the same time another school of painting was taking shape at Nathdwara where painters painted Lord Krishna and his various acts (Leelas) in vibrant colors. The paintings of royalty had minute details such as a large number of courtiers and were painted on vast canvas. The paintings of Nathdwara were, on the other hand, contained a lot of characters such as friends of Krishna, Gopies and cow herds. the paintings at Nathdwara were created on cloth and then hung behind the deity's image. hence these paintings were popularly called the Pichwais. These were both large as well as miniature. The paintings at Udaipur were created on cloth as well as on walls of palaces (fresco). The style of both the places was same, but the theme was totally different. The same tradition still continues and the miniature paintings and Pichwais are in great demand in domestic as well as international market.

Marble is found in large quantity at Udaipur and therefore it has always been a popular medium for creative artisans. Small statues made of Marble, fountains, staircases, decorative wall paneling and Marble furniture etc. are very popular. But the pick of them all is Marble inlay work. Marble slabs are engraved manually, and small pieces of marble, of different colors are inlaid in these grooves, creating a predefined pattern. The finished product looks like a painting on marble. these inlaid slabs are used mostly as table tops and some small articles such as decorative boxes are also prepared.
Thin tiles of marble are used to paint attractive pictures using different types of colors, and these tiles are used as decorative wall hangings and table top decorative articles.

This is another work of art for which Udaipur is known the world over. Silver is used to create a large number of articles. Traditionally silver ornaments and sculptures were hand crafted and delicately carved. Silver utensils are another product which is popular, although in more affluent class. Then there are small decorative items made of silver such as flower vase, picture frames, pen, ink pot and a lot more. An entirely different art using silver as a wrap is also very popular. Wooden articles such as Chairs, Sofas, Tables, Cup Boards and even Doors are prepared. A sheet of silver is Wrapped around the article.

There is a traditional art originating from a small village near Nathdwara, "Mollela" and therefore known as terracotta art of Mollela. A variety of products are made using terracotta, and are baked in hand made furnaces. These articles are delicately crafted and are an excellent piece of decoration. Big and small flower vase, Lamp stands, Attractive statues and wall paneling are commonly available but the artisan can prepare any item as per your choice.