Maatiro Kaam/Clay and Terracotta of Jaisalmer, Rajasthan

Craftsmen of the caste of Kumbhakars prepare hand crafted products. These include the well known floating clay lamps and lamps in the shape of tortoise and fish bowl for curds, girdle, to make bread. This craft is also practiced in Jaisalmer, Rajasthan. They also shape animals of variety more than 100, including snail, elephant, giraffe, horse, camel, pig, bull, cat, dog, rabbit, camel cart, owl, duck, crocodile, peacock, birds, cock, cow, Nandi, fish, frog, etc.; wall hangings with different animal head shapes, pots with figures of men and women.

Besides creating terracotta pots and vessels, local potters also produce a variety of clay toys and idols in Rajasthan.  Idols of Ganesha and Ramdeo, toys such as camels, lions, peacocks, elephants, horse, rats and rabbits and other animal figurines are created under this craft-form. Tools such as potter’s wheel,  moulds and carving tools are used for the crafting process.