Molela, in Rajasthan, is famous for its plaques which take the form of stelae made up of a sheet of clay about a centimeter thick, laid on a board powdered with dung and cut into shape. The image usually a deity, is built up with sheets of clay deftly shaped to create a hollow high-relief figure, with the details then pinched into shape. the plaques are usually dedicated to deities of the Hindu pantheon, local deities like the Nagadeva and the local heroes like Dev Narayan, Tejaji, pabuji, among others. 

A fascinating tradition of figurative terracotta is practiced by the Maru community in Molela. The plaques are like vertical niches with fluted arches and the image of a deity in high relief at the center. Symbolically, the plaques serve as shrines for the devotees. The plaques of Goddesses are mostly revered by the tribal communities such as Bhils, Minas, and Sahariyas. 

Molela Terracotta Art and Pottery workshop

Date: Sunday, 10th February '19

Timing: 10 am to 4 pm

Fees: Rs 1,000/-

Seats: 15

(All materials to be provided by us)

Workshop to be conducted by a traditional artisan from Molela, Rajasthan

Workshop schedule:

1st Session is on making Molela Terracotta plaques and designs (10 am to 1 pm)

2nd Session is on Pottery (2 pm to 4 pm)

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