Pacchikari Stone Inlay Technique: Timeless Art Form of Indian Stone Inlay

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Introduction

Pacchikari, a renowned art form introduced in India by the Mughal Emperors. It is an intricate art practiced by descendants of the artisans who worked on the creation of the Taj Mahal. Taj Mahal, one of the 7 wonders of the world, to this day remains a hallmark of Agra craftsmanship. Most of these designs are inspired by Mughal inlay art and use Makarana marble in their creation. This process involves detailed craftsmanship by multiple artisans; ensuring great quality and timeless elegance. The process involves using geru, which is a mineral color that helps in highlighting intricate patterns. Shallow grooves are created using chisels and a set square in the marble. Various kinds of semi-precious stones, such as Cornelia, Malachite, Pearl, Jasper and Coral are shaped and then fitted into the space in the Marble.

Origin of Pacchikari art form

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Pacchikari originated in Agra when Shah Jahan flourished this art form in the 17th century. This art form was inspired by Pietra Dura, which originated in Florence in the 16th century. Pacchikari or Parchinkari involved an inlay cut and fitting of semi-precious stone in marble to create unique designs. Shah Jahan was impressed by European design, so he brought European and Persian craftsmen to India. He emphasized on training of Indian artisans, which later evolved and came to be known as Pacchikari. This craft involves inlaying different semi-precious stones such as Cornelia, Malachite, Red Jasper, Turquoise, Lapis Lazuli, agate, etc., into marble. This is a refined craftsmanship that emerges from Marble with precise cuts. In Taj Ganj, Nai ka Mandi Gokulpura, artisans continue to live in slums around Taj Mahal and perform inlay work on marble. This art is performed on various artefacts, tables, statues, trays, boxes and other decorative items. The entire lanes are occupied with descendants of workers of Taj mahal or stone inlay technique. Generations of artists stayed in this place and preserved this craft and shared it with the world.

Pacchikari stone inlay has been awarded the Geographical Indication (GI) tag for Agra, which is relevant for preservation of this art form. Gi tags benefit small businesses and local artisans and help them gain global recognition. Pacchikari is popularly known as Indian marble inlay work. Some of the popular examples of Pacchikari Technique in India are – Taj Mahal, Itimad ud Daulah Tomb, Red Fort, Agra Fort and Humayun Tomb. Its design was highly classified with different flowers, vines, leaves, a vase and geometric patterns. Pacchikari is a true testament to the timeless craftsmanship of skilled artisans of Agra stone inlay craft.

Comparison between Pacchikari and Pietra Dura art form

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• Pietra Dura used large hard stones which were set into marble, while Pacchikari used smaller semi-precious stones often fitted in intricate design on marble. 
• Pietra used black or white marble, while Pacchikari used white marble from Makarana. 
• Pietra Dura used semi-precious stones like Lapis Lazuli, Malachite, Jasper, Onyx and Agate, while Pacchikari added Indian Stones such as Coral or Bloodstone. 
• Pietra Dura is influenced by the Renaissance Era, while Pacchikari is influenced by a combination of Persian and Indian designs. 
• Pietra Dura used floral motifs, geometrical or animal designs, while Pacchikari used floral motifs along with arabesque and Islamic motifs. 
• The Pietra Dura color palette is quite vibrant, while Pacchikari uses softer tones. 
• Pietra dura is used in Furniture, altars and panels, while Pacchikari is used in architecture, decor or tabletops. 
• Popular examples of Pietra Dura are the Medici Chapel and other European Palaces. While Pacchikari's popular example is the Taj Mahal, the Red Fort and other Mughal architecture art of the 17th century. 
• Pietra is considered a niche craft which is popular in the collector's market, while Pacchikari has been awarded the GI tag for Agra.

Materials used in Parchinkari Stone inlay technique

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Pacchikari art depends on the selection of base material and semi-precious inlay stones to achieve durability and distinct elegance. Artisans use precious & semi-precious stones like Malachite, Red Jasper, Lapis Lazuli, Carnelian, Turquoise and Onyx for their vibrant colors. These semi-precious stones are chosen for their strength then they are hand-cut and fitted into a marble base, which helps in highlighting intricate designs. Many artists use locally sourced stones, keeping in mind changing climate conditions. It is important to keep in mind high-quality materials in semi-precious stones and a marble base, which helps in highlighting the precision and brilliance of the artwork.

Crafting process of Parchinkari/Pacchikari

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Pacchikari stone inlay technique involves fitting in semi-precious stones in the form of flower petals, leaves and into marble. Pacchikari is a refined form of Pietra Dura, which is more intricate and symmetrical. This process requires the following steps -

1. The process starts with acquiring high-quality White marble. The Marble is cut as per the size of the article which will be made.
2. After the marble is cut into shape, semi-precious stones are acquired and cut into thin slices. These fragments are shaped using a hand-operated machine, which helps in shaping the stone properly. These stones are used to make different motifs or designs as per the structure.
3. After shaping the stones, marble is smeared with color like powdered ochre or heena, which gives an orange color.
4. Later marble is chiseled so one can make space to fit the stones. These chiseled spots are highlighted against the orange background of the Heena, which makes it easier for people to fit stones. Two chisels – one flat and one pointed are used to shape material. The tools are made of iron, but the tips are made of tempered steel, which is heated and reheated up to 650 Degree Celsius.
5. After that, stones are set one at a time in the carved-out space using special adhesive. When the glue is dried and the stones are set, sandpaper is used to smooth rough edges. This washes off henna and reveals dazzling white stone underneath.
6. At last, a final polish is given to give a protective shine to the product.

Symbolism and cultural significance of Pacchikari

Parchinkari or Parchinkari has significance in Mughal architecture, which involves adding semiprecious stones into quality marble. The process involves creating intricate designs, which often include geometric and floral patterns. For example, the floral motif in the Taj Mahal is a symbol of the Garden of Paradise, which reflects the influence of Persian art on Mughal architecture. Each semi-precious stones have a symbolic weight; for example, red is a symbol of blood and death, while yellow is a symbol of grief or rebirth. These designs add natural elements such as flowers and other elements that connect this art to nature’s beauty.

Shah Jahan patronized Parchikari art and commissioned the making of the Taj Mahal, which is a symbol of power and achievement. Pacchikari has roots in the cultural heritage of Agra, as many descendants of the original Craftsmen of Taj Mahal still reside in Taj Ganj, Agra. Taj Mahal has become a powerful symbol of love as Shah Jahan built it in memory of her beloved wife Mumtaj.

Modern Day Pacchikari from monument to home Decor

Pacchikari is an intricate art form which adorns one of the seven wonders of the world, the Taj Mahal. In a contemporary setting, Pacchikari is now used in decorative items such as furniture, boxes, flooring, etc. Various furniture items such as tables, chairs and other luxury pieces are made using the inlay work of Pacchikari. It has also been used on tabletops, coasters, wall art and showpieces, which have showcased this art. Marble inlay home decor items bring sense of royal charm to your place but also serve as conversation piece that reflect rich cultural heritage of India. Pacchikari is unique blend of sophistication and tradition which makes it a prized addition to your space.

Challenges faced by the Pacchikari technique

• Limited livelihood opportunities – This is a complex craft which involves extensive hard work and time. Even after that, it doesn't provide sufficient income to the artisans to carry on their livelihood. 
• Lack of recognition – Even though Pacchikari, Agra, has received the GI tag, this art is struggling to gather appreciation from other communities. There is less demand for Pacchikari in the Indian market. 
• Technological advancement – With the advancement in technology, electrical grinders are used for improving speed and efficiency. But due to a shortage of electricity, artisans must rely on manual grinders, which results in low productivity. 
• Time-consuming process – Pacchikari technique requires a lot of effort from the laborers' side, which makes this art a time-consuming process. 
• Mass production – Due to high demand in the export market, artists have to produce similar pieces in bulk, which compromises the uniqueness of the product.

Preservation of Pacchikari art

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Preserving traditional art forms requires a prolonged approach, which includes supporting artisans with fair remuneration, so they continue working on this art. It requires recognition from the government and art patrons. Government initiatives and skill development programs in promoting art forms are crucial for the survival of this art form. Financial assistance is required to alleviate this issue so that this art form continues to thrive. Merely awarding the GI tag is not enough; it requires public awareness through exhibitions and demonstrations to a wide audience. Educating people about this art form through school or museum programs would make it a prominent art form. It is important to keep innovating in different forms of home decor and fashion items to broaden Pacchikari's appeal. Using an online platform to showcase this art form would increase its popularity globally. Pacchikari adaptation in home decor has helped in the continuation of the legacy, so it thrives in a modern setting.

Natriel is working to preserve endangered crafts by providing them a platform to showcase their work and reach new audiences. Natriel offers handcrafted gifting and home decor options to its customers.

Conclusion

Pacchikari is a timeless art form which is set in stone which reflects centuries of craftsmanship and cultural refinement. Pacchikari uses marble and semi-precious stones to create decorative pieces that add regal charm to homes. Pacchikari is an art form inspired by Persian designs, but it has been improved by Indian artists. It is important to keep the public aware of this unique art form through extensive marketing programs.

It is important to preserve this art form, for which we need to support artisans by providing them fair remuneration and institutional recognition.

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Natriel also has unique art forms such as Bidri, Dhokra, Papier Mache, Blue Pottery, Mysore Inlay, Terracotta and Sabai Grass. Explore all our products here.