Rich Handicrafts are those products which are made and decorated with expert professionals without taking any help from tools, devices or even machines. The skill which is needed for each handicraft is a direct reflection of its regional, traditional, and geographical value and sentiments.
Rich Handicrafts are the rudiments which display cultural and regional identities. Pakistani handicrafts have been present in the world for 5,000 years. Sending handicrafts to other countries marks the county’s cultural importance and maintains its dignity in the world. Pakistani wooden handicrafts are under the category of luxurious products for fashion and interior home decoration.
Around 80% of the Pakistani handicrafts belong from Sindh whereas the Punjab province has proven its name as the second biggest place for making Pakistani handicrafts. Pakistan is particularly recognized for the blue pottery ceramic products and Multan is the main hub of making blue pottery.
The civilization of Pakistan is centuries old and it boasts a rich history of the incense of Sufi shrines, Indus dolphins, gems, spices and so much more. Anyone living in Pakistan can feel, taste, hear and view the deep complexity and real beauty of Pakistani culture.
There is nothing subtle about Pakistan; whether you talk about history, land or the people. Each nook and cranny of the country brims with intensity. From the delicious foods to fashion, home architecture to design, each aspect has a story to tell.
One can imagine and experience various worlds which are nestled inside the regional spaces of the country. And by laying down the canvas of marble, wood, clay, metal and clothes, this article will discuss the rich and delightful handicrafts of Pakistan. So without further ado, let’s familiarize ourselves with Pakistan’s beauty.
Table of Contents
List of Popular Rich Handicrafts from Pakistan
- Ceramics and pottery
- Brass and copper
- Wood carving
- Marble carving
- Khussa
- Ajrak
- Blue pottery
- Camel lamps
- Gems
- Rilli
- Pashima
Ceramics and Pottery
The Origins of ceramic and pottery is rooted in the Gandhara civilization. As shown by various studies and research, even the ruined settlements of Gandhara have offered toys made of clay. This lively tradition has been active and alive from then on.
With the progression of time, the ceramic and pottery tradition reached out to the outskirts of Sindh and Punjab provinces. In these areas, the visitors always find artisans making and painting ceramic pots that are adorned with Kashi or Niqashi Kari.
Brass and Copper
The tradition of brass and copper is highly intricate, fragile and detail oriented. The history of this rich handicraft originates from the Northern area of Pakistan which are old markets in Peshawar and Swat to be exact.
When the Mughals invaded, they became mesmerized with the skill of the native artisans. If you ever see the creation of these beautiful handicrafts, you will be surprised with it’s time consuming craftsmanship and making.
Wood Carving
Without a shadow of a doubt, wood carving was inspired by the Mughal architecture and their design. Everyone is aware and quite familiar with wood carving. The majority of Pakistani homes are abundant with decorations or furniture having wood carving on them. The origin of the wooden handicrafts is from little cities such as Sargodha and Chiniot.
Marble Carving
Marble carvings are seen in the Northern area of Pakistan. Artisans and craftsmen work with porcelain marble items in order to make utensils, decorative products, and art which are so tempting that you can not help buying them.
Khussa
You can think of khussa as traditional Pakistani shoes having a collage of the county’s culture. These authentic shoes are made of embroidery and leather. The Khussa shoes are typically adorned with the Pakistani mirrors and motifs to make highly distinct footwear.
Ajrak
Ajrak was introduced in the Pakistani handicrafts world many centuries ago at the shore of Sindh province. The ancient people used to dye Ajrak in indigo color during the era of Mohenjodaro.
Ajrak showcases the complete Indus civilization featured within the motifs. The beautiful designs of the block printing have not changed a bit from the beginning to this day. The design was taken from the Chaukhandi walls and from the people in Indus civilization.
Blue Pottery
It is impossible to discuss Pakistani handicrafts without mentioning the blue pottery art. This attractive traditional art is inspired by an appealing blend of Turkish and Persian calligraphy and miniatures. The cities in Pakistan which are popular for making blue pottery are Sindh and Multan.
Camel Lamps
Camel lamp is a terrific creation from the deserts of Multan and Cholistan. Camel lamps are made of camel skin, as the name clearly suggests. It is then painted over a stunning art piece which you definitely can not find anywhere else. The porous skin of Camel illuminates the room which forms a shadow of the desert night.
Gems
This particular handicraft is perfect for anyone who is a fan of jewelry and loves collecting jewelry. It is a fact that precious gems are a staple of jewelry. Pakistani gems are taken out from the Himalayan mountains.
Some of the most gorgeous gems that are excavated are turquoise, emeralds and rubies. Pakistani women love wearing these gems. They can be used and worn in different ways. If you ever visit Pakistan, make sure to check out these alluring gems.
Rilli
Rilli is a unique handicraft which originated from poverty. As the time went by, Rilli was improvised by nomadic women who were so poor that they could not even afford new clothes. The trademark patchwork quilts reflect the strength, skill and resilience of those poor people.
Rilli is an evidence that much of the world’s greatest art was created out of need as compared to the love of aesthetics. The ancient people offered these patchwork quilts to each other in their rustic communities as a gift. People used to keep the Rilli quilts for decades. It served the purpose of a momento to be given to their daughters and future children.
Pashima
Pashima is made by the women of a complete Kashmiri village. This is why it’s hard to find and very expensive. It is basically a shawl made of genuine lambswool having beautiful handwork. The flowers in the handiwork reflect the autumn and spring seasons. It’s made in the Northern parts of Pakistan.
