Gesso Painting
Folk Painting
History
Bikaner, founded by Raja Rao Bikaji, flourished under Mughal patronage, fostering Usta art. This craft, introduced in the 16th century, gained prominence when Emperor Akbar sent artisans to Bikaner at Raja Rai Singh’s request. Usta artists adorned Junagarh Fort, particularly Anup Mahal, Phool Mahal, and Karan Palace, with intricate golden naqashi.
Raw Materials and Tools
Traditional Usta art utilized camel hide, later transitioning to MDF and wood. The embossing is crafted using shell powder, clay powder, gum, jaggery, and naushadar. Gold foil is a crucial component, giving the artwork its signature elegance. Enamel paint, natural primer, and sable-hair brushes ensure precision in detailing.
Process
Usta art begins with preparing camel hide, MDF, or wood, which is cleaned, sanded, and primed. The design is traced using coal powder through pinholes. A putty mixture creates the raised embossing, giving Usta art its distinct texture. Once dried, the surface is coated with yellow enamel paint, followed by gold foil application. Artisans use a sable-hair brush for intricate detailing with jewel-toned colors like ruby red, emerald green, and sapphire blue, enhancing its rich appearance.
Design and Color
Usta art features ornate floral, geometric, and celestial motifs. Popular designs include Taarabandi, replicating a starry sky, and Naqqashi, golden floral patterns with colorful backgrounds. Naqashi with Mina incorporates colored flowers, while Tantla emphasizes gold with detailed whitework. Ranga Baijee combines transparent hues with miniature paintings. Usta art traditionally employs red, green, blue, and gold, symbolizing prosperity, devotion, and grandeur, with Arabic, Persian, and Urdu calligraphy recently influencing modern adaptations.
Product Range
Originally adorning forts, palaces, and temples, Usta art has evolved into decorative and functional items. These include photo frames, vases, mirror frames, jewelry boxes, furniture, wall panels, and souvenirs. Artists also create calligraphic pieces, customized decor, and religious artifacts, merging traditional styles with contemporary aesthetics. Due to its intricate craftsmanship and gold embellishments, Usta work remains a luxury art form, treasured by collectors and art connoisseurs worldwide.