Overview

The origins of this craft are said to be Turko-Persian; it is believed to have been introduced into the narratives of Indian pottery by the Mughals. Sources reveal that blue pottery came to Jaipur in the early 19th century under the rule of Sawai Ram Singh II (1835 – 1880). Apparently, Maharaja Ram Singh sent off his artisans to Delhi to be trained in the craft. Sadly by the 50s, the craft had almost disappeared from Jaipur. Muralist and painter Kripal Singh Shekhawat, re-introduced it here with the support of patrons such as Culture Czarina Kamladevi Chattopadhaya and Rajmata Gayatri Devi.

Today Jaipur Blue Pottery is protected by the GI status, or Geographical Indication as a traditional craft of the region. What’s most distinctive about Jaipur Blue Pottery is that instead of clay, it uses a dough for the pottery; this is made by mixing Fuller’s Earth (Multani Mitti) with ground glass, quartz powder, borax, gum, soda bicarbonate, and water. The name “Blue Pottery” comes from the eye-catching blue hues that define the pottery.

As one steps into the enchanting old city of Jaipur, one is plunged into a world of incredible crafting traditions. What binds them all in the husk of the heat and the lure of the tales is an unending array of colours and motifs, be it pottery or textiles. Blue pottery, ever so elegant and always fragile, is a craft, the Pink City has long been celebrated for.

Things you will love it

• Learning about the Jaipur-Mughal-Persia connect
• Understanding why UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN) in 2015 designated Jaipur as a ‘City of Crafts and Folk Arts’
• Trying your hand at creating a piece of your own

What you will experience

Our explorer will take you for the walk inside the factory and will explain the step by step process of making blue pottery which has adapted traditional designs found now also in items such as tea sets, cups and saucers, plates and glasses, jugs, ashtrays and napkin rings.

Interact with the workers about their experiences and work. Learn the technique of making blue pottery and try your hands on the spinning wheel and make your own pottery. Colour it with the eye-catching blue colour. Take a souvenir of your own made blue pottery.

Tour by Government approved Local Guide

INR 3200 per person | 3 hours | Art and Architecture