Rajasthani Painting
Let me admit., I have seen colorful Meenakari art in jewelry of Rajasthan, my mother possesses some of them. But my knowledge of this art is limited, mostly, to colors … golden, green and red. Similarly, I had seen Usta Art of Bikaner in the past but knew nothing about it! Not even its proper name.
This article was republished with updated content on 15th July, 2023.
So when I saw Usta Painitng, live, I was quite impressed by its colorful intricate designs. I thought of buying one, but when I heard the price, I was content with only looking and admiring those art pieces. Even one small piece of Usta Art work can cause a big hole in your pocket.
History of Usta Art Bikaner
Usta art is a generic term used for Naqqashi and Manoti art practiced by Usta artisans from the Bikaner district of Rajasthan.
The term “USTAD” is derived from Persian word ‘USTAD’ meaning master. During the period of Mughal Emperor Akbar, a group of Usta artists from Iran came to Bikaner to execute design work at the famous Junagarh fort of Bikaner. Even today some of its palaces like Anup mahal, Phool mahal and karan mahal showcase the craftsmanship and skills of those artists.
Another version says, the name has come from a Muslim community called Usta which were associated with this art form.
The various motifs that are used in Usta art, are influenced by Mughal designs. Earlier this form of gold emboss work was done mostly on walls and ceilings but during British period it was felt that it should also be done on a material which is light and easy to carry.
Hence, glass, wood, marble and camel hide came into picture and now they are the most popular bases to work upon. It’s a real treat to our eyes if it’s made on a white base such as ivory or marble. The brush used is made of squirrel hair.
This art has passed and survived several generations but in today’s fast life, it has started to diminish. Thankfully, with some intervention and efforts by the government, people have started taking interest in it.
You may want to check intriguing ‘Jordan’s Sand Art in bottle’
Ustad Ajmal Hussain Usta
When we got a chance to meet a Usta artist Ajmal Hussain Usta, we were enlightened to know a lot more about this art. Ajmal Hussain Usta has been working on this art since his childhood and acquired the skills from his father. This art has passed and survived several generations but in today’s fast life, it has started to diminish. Thankfully, with some intervention and efforts by the government, people have started taking interest in it.
Ajmal Hussain Usta showed us a book which is a collection of pictures of his works. He also showed us the tools that he uses. When he explained the procedure for it, I realized how much time & effort goes into it.
Golden Munawwati Nakkashi work or gold emboss work is completed in many stages or steps.
Steps for making an Usta Art piece
- The base surface is smoothened and is prepared by applying natural primer.
- The surface is then tightened and fixed and the basic outlines of the design is drawn.
- First, they color the edges or the outlines as the case may be. It is followed by filling in the colour with brush.
- Once dried, the floral design is embossed by using a paste made of pot clay powder, gum, jaggery and naushadar. Usta was hesitant to tell about ingredients of this paste but I could find it on internet. 🙂
- On this embossed design, two coats of yellow paint are applied.
- Again when it is dried, the gold foils are applied and details of emboss are drawn.
It looks like an easy job but no, it’s a very time consuming work.
Ajmal Hussain Usta has created excellent pieces of folk art displayed on camel hide, stone and metal. Usta kala products can also be seen in temples and several monuments of Bikaner.
Have you seen the Rajasthani Usta Art or something similar somewhere? It is a must do in the itinerary of tourism in Bikaner.
You may want to check ‘Top Things to do in Bikaner’
FAQ about Usta Art
Why is this art so expensive?
Is it the amount of gold used in making? Or the time taken or the laborious effort that goes into making a piece? It is actually a combination of all! Usta arts are highly-priced because of the skilled work involved and amount of gold used.
What is Usta Art?
Usta art is a generic term used for Naqqashi and Manoti art practiced by Usta artisans from the Bikaner district of Rajasthan. It is indeed a fine example of traditional art.
How has it survived for so long?
This art has been passed from father to son and has survived several generations of families skilled in Usta art form
Places to stay in Bikaner
The tourism in Bikaner is growing with time. There are many luxurious hotels in Bikaner and there are hotels to suit smaller pockets also. Narendra Bhawan is a decent place to stay and they also curate customized city tours also.
Click Here for best Bikaner hotel offers as per your budget and convenience
Guided Tour of Bikaner
Since Bikaner has many things to see and experience, it is always advised to go with a tour operator or a tour curator to avoid missing on important activities.
Check out these guided tours while you are visiting Bikaner.
Book here your guided tour of Bikaner and nearby places as per your preferences.
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