Jabalpur Stone Craft
Other stone crafts
History
Under royal patronage, artisans refined their skills, crafting religious idols adorned with intricate panels and embellishments. In 1865, the region gained international recognition when a marble block from Jabalpur was showcased at the Paris Exhibition and compared to Italian marble. Over time, artisans expanded their repertoire to include home décor and utility items, appealing to a broader audience. Tourism further boosted the demand for this distinctive and culturally rich craftsmanship.
Raw Materials and Tools
The primary material used is marble, including hard and soft varieties, available in various shades at Bhedaghat. Tools include a saw (Aari) for cutting, a hammer (Hatodi) for shaping, chisels (Chheni) for detailed carving, drills, files for fine detailing, and sandpaper for smoothing. Additional materials like wax polish, acrylic paints, oils, gold, silver foils, and semi-precious stones are used to enhance the carvings.
Process
The stone crafting process starts with selecting quality marble or soapstone, sometimes sourced from Rajasthan. Designs are sketched using pencils or compasses, then carved with hammers, chisels, and drills. Water is sprayed to reduce dust, and sandpaper smooths rough edges. Final touches include acrylic painting, inlaying semi-precious stones, and polishing for a glossy finish. Women often assist in finishing. Modern tools like laser engraving and CAD are also used alongside traditional methods.
Design and Color
The designs in Jabalpur stone craft are rooted in religious and cultural traditions. Motifs of Hindu deities like Shiva, Durga, and Ganesh, along with symbolic animals like lions, elephants, and peacocks, represent strength, wisdom, and protection. Floral patterns, especially lotuses, signify purity, while geometric designs reflect harmony and spiritual depth, influenced by Mughal and ancient Indian styles. These intricate patterns have evolved, blending traditional symbolism with contemporary aesthetics.
Product Range
Jabalpur stone craft offers a wide range of products, from religious idols of deities like Shiva, Durga, and Ganesh to symbolic animal figures such as lions, elephants, and peacocks. Artisans also create decorative items like busts, statues, and ornamental pieces featuring floral and geometric motifs. These products vary in size—from small décor items to large sculptures—and serve both religious and decorative purposes in homes, temples, and public spaces.
