Arts and Crafts of Assam
Assam is well known for its art and crafts. Since time immemorial, people in Assam have kept up their tradition of artistic excellence. Assam is generally associated with silk and bamboo products, but there are other crafts as well that flourish in this North Eastern State.
Cane and Bamboo products
Cane and Bamboo is a major industry in Assam. These materials are interwoven in the lifestyle of people inhabiting Assam that even in routine life, people use products made from bamboo and cane. Various articles that can be created by this natural resource are furniture, roof tiles, baskets, winnowing pans, sieve, beer mugs and musical instruments. The bamboo baskets of Assam are a specialty. They are of varied shapes and designs. Traditional mats made of bamboo and canes are seen in almost every house.
Jaapi
Jaapi is a traditional hat worn by people to protect themselves from the scorching heat of sun. It is regarded as the most prestigious item of Assam. When famous Chinese Traveler Hiuen Tsang visited India, he was welcomed with Jaapi.
Metal Crafts
Bell metals and Brass are most widely used metals in Assam. Assamese artisans make utensils and decoratives. Kalash (water pot), Surahi, Kahi (dish), Bati (bowl), Lota and Tal (cymbals) are some of the commonly seen articles made of metal. Guru Simhasana is a traditional stand especially made for idols. Intricately designed Xorai and Bota are used since ancient period to offer betel nut and paan while receiving guests.
Handlooms
Muga silk is very popular as an exclusive variety belonging to Assam. It is one of the finest silks of India and is also called the golden silk. Women wear beautiful dresses made from this traditional silk. Besides Muga, Paat and Eri (used in for making warm clothes). The traditional hand-woven silk is much popular than machine made silk. The designs and patterns in this silk are classic.
Toys
Four types of toys are made in Assam. There are clay toys, pith, cloth / cloth-mud toys and wooden / bamboo toys. Commonly seen toys are dolls of brides and grooms. The clay toys generally feature animals found in Assam. Pith or Indian Cork is used to make idols of Gods, animal and bird figures.
Pottery
Pottery is the ancient form of art. The potters of Kumars and Hiras communities of Assam are traditional potter communities. Hira tribes do not use wheel and the potters are only the womenfolk. The male members of this tribe undertake the marketing and selling process. Pottery items include earthen pots, pitchers, plates, earthen lamps, incense-stick holders and plates.
Masks
Masks are used in folk dances, on festivals and special occasions. These traditional masks today adorn the walls of living rooms or drawing rooms of modern houses.
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