Clay and Terracotta of Assam

Clay, Terracotta, Pottery

Clay and Terracotta of Assam

Assam has a rich tradition of terracotta which has been handed down from generation to generation. There are two traditional potter communities – Hira and Kumhar. The kumhar potters use the wheel and create figurines of gods and goddesses, clay dolls, toys, and pots. Whereas, the Hira community do not use the wheel at all and manufacture household articles using the compression method. Among the Hiras, only the women are engaged in pottery while the men help in procuring raw materials and selling the wares.

The most commonly used pottery products include earthen pots and pitchers, plates, incense-stick holders, and earthen lamps. In Kamrup, terracotta objects including clay tiles are made. Asharkandi, a village in Goalpara district, is famous for its graceful clay dolls. Today, the traditional products are still being made but new shapes and products are also being tried out.

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