Kashmiri Art

Kashmiri paintings are a unique fusion of various styles, given its long history and a rich tradition of illustrated manuscripts. The art of Miniature painting was introduced to India by the Mughals, who brought artists specialized in miniature painting from Persia in the sixteenth century. These artists in turn trained Indian artists who went on to evolve a new distinctive style, inspired by the royal and romantic lives of the Mughals. Apart from the exquisite miniature paintings created by these incredibly talented artists, Kashmiri art today is predominantly identified with the distinctive Papier-mache artifacts from the state. A delicate, decorative art that was introduced in the 15th Century during the reign of Badshah Zain-ul-Abedin in Kashmir, this unique craft involves the use of paper pulp for creating beautiful products exquisitely painted by expert craftsmen. The colours for painting designs on the surface are obtained by grinding and soaking various vegetable mineral dyes in pigment or stone form. The final product is a beautiful art work that is actually the collective handiwork of many talented hands. The strong aesthetic sensibilities and heightened creative talent are inherent in the craftsmen of this region. Kashmiri Papier Mache art today, has become highly stylized and appealing with the use of real gold and silver paint and intricate decorations. The motifs of this art are usually in the form of flowers and birds, with a strong Persian flavour. The art now also manifests itself on cloth, stone, wood and metal and a wide range of utility and décor items. The French word ‘Papier Mache’ literally translates to paper pulp. Paper is usually mixed with glue and mashed together to form a clay like consistency and then crafted into a variety of forms.