Photos: by Raminder Pal Singh
Art
Amritsar Keeps Bas-Relief Art Form Alive
by RAVINDER SINGH ROBIN
Several ancient art forms such as copper relief art are on the verge of extinction on the subcontinent, but a few artisans in Amritsar, Pun jab, have preserved this ancient form.
Bas-relief is a sculpture technique which is as old as humankind's artistic explorations and is
closely related to high relief. In Amritsar, these craftsmen have been
practicing this craft for centuries. But, it is expensive and that has
led to a decline in demand.
Built during 1574 AD, the sacred Sri Harmandar Sahib (The Golden Temple) is famous for its architectural
beauty and charm. The exquisite golden structure called Sri Darbar
Sahib is unique and though it has elements of Islamic and Buddhist
architecture, the bas-relief and the intricately inlaid artwork that
adorn its walls reflect a unique Sikh architecture.
The gold and copper craftwork was done under the patronage of Maharaja
Ranjit Singh in early 19th century, and the responsibility for the task was given to Mistri
Yar Mohammad Khan, under the supervision of Bhai Sand Singh.
"According to Sikh history, the work
was earlier done as per the Mughal architecture. Sikh Gurus converted
it as per Sikh art. Later, Maharaja Ranjit Singh had the roof of the
temple gilded with gold and got naqashi and frescoes made by skilled
craftsmen. Maharaja Ranjit Singh promoted these craftsmen," said Baba
Amrik Singh, dera kar sewa wale.
The craftsmen locally known as 'thathrias' still carry on the tradition of copper relief art in
Amritsar. They make copper panels in relief with intricate designs,
which are used to decorate religious buildings and affluent houses.
Unfortunately, this art is on the verge of extinction since there are only a few people left who know the technique of relief work.
Ramesh
Kumar is a fourth generation craftsman who believes that next
generation is not very keen on carrying forward the tradition.
"We
do the entire work by hand. Very few things are done on machine. One
can get gold polish done on these copper artifacts. And it is also
possible to have gold coating on it. To make it more stunning we do
naqashi work. And its cost that is 170 dollars then it goes up to 220
dollars. Only three to four families still practice this craft as
youngsters don't want to continue with it," said the
craftsman.
[Courtesy: ANI]
February 7, 2010
Conversation about this article
1: Mai Harinder Kaur (Seattle, U.S.A.), February 07, 2010, 5:54 PM.
As breathtaking as these photos are, it must be seen to be believed. Notwithstanding the air pollution and crowds and distance, every Sikh really ought to be able to see this at least once in their life. The artistry is incredible; the spiritual experience is more. Once inside Darbar Sahib, everything else just ceases to exist and only ... well, you need to experience for yourself.