The Rhythm of the Chisel: The Art of Wooden Printing Block Making in India
Close your eyes. Now try and imagine a symphony, a musical rhythm of taps. No, this isn’t any orchestra playing an experimental tune; but it’s the workshop of a wooden printing block makers and artisans in India. This is the place where skilled artisans breathe life into blocks of seasoned wood. Sometimes even an entire family of artisans, transforming wooden blocks into storytelling instruments. These interments are capable of creating vibrant stories onto yards and yards of fabric. Each of these handcrafted wooden blocks created with millions of taps of the chisel, centuries of tradition and cultural heritage.
You will have to step back into time, to experience and understand the art of block making. This crafts has adorned textiles for millennia. This ancient art form is currently facing modern challenges. But it never stops to captivate with its intricate designs. The sheer dedication of this handicraft’s practitioners inspiring to say the least.
A Century Long Legacy Carved in Wood: History Of Block Printing
Although the origins of this craft, are somewhat shrouded in mystery. But there are some evidences suggesting that it arrived in India between the 6th – 8th centuries AD. So, we can say that it has a rich history dating all the way back to ancient times. Some also say that the craft of wooden block making and fabric printing originated in China, and was later adopted and developed in India. There are records of block printed fabrics in the Indus Valley civilization, around 3500 to 1300 BC. The Mughal Empire also played a very significant role in the prospering of block printing in India. The Mughal rule introduced intricate floral motifs, some of which are still used in hand block prints.
It will be safe to say that this handicrafts been practiced in India since at least the 12th century and is thought to be 2,000 years old. Through the times, the seed of this unique craft found fertile ground in the diverse cultural tapestry of the country. It has been passed down through generations. It has been flourishing in regions like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Andhra Pradesh. Over a long period of experimentation, each region has developed its own distinct style of block prints through the influence of local motifs, stories, and artistic sensibilities. The Sanganeri prints added floral motifs while the Kalamkari artisans brought geometric precision To the art form. These block print motifs are not just decorative embellishments; they serve as str tellers of ancient epics, religious symbols, and everyday life things.
The Heart of the Craft: The Block Maker’s Skill
This handicraft demands a lot of manual work which takes time and is labor-intensive. It is the magic of the skills of these artisans. Their skill have been passed down through generations. The traditional process of block making is like a family secret for these artisans. Each family member is a specialist in a specific step of the entire process. Right from the sourcing of the correct wood type (often seasoned sheesham or teak) to carefully transferring intricate designs and using the chisel with expert precision, each of these steps demand true dedication.
The entire process of making a wooden printing block has multiple intricate steps.
First step is when a design is drawn / printed onto a piece of paper and then transferred using traditional methods like charcoal dust or paper stencils to a seasoned wood surface. A separate block is required for each color in the design. The most complex designs are always handled by the most experienced carvers. The most intricate details are always saved for last. The final printed design onto the fabric comes out as a mirror-image of its carved pattern. Second step is, the actual carving, with a rhythmic tapping of hammer and chisel. Each precise tap shapes the design, creating raised areas that will imprint on the fabric. The final step involves sanding and polishing the block, ensuring smooth ink application and clear impressions.
Preserving a Legacy: Initiatives and the Future of Block Printing
This traditional craft is facing many challenges. The rapid increase in machine-made prints and synthetic fabrics has impacted the demand for hand-printed traditional textiles. The time-consuming nature of block carving also makes it very difficult for these artisan families to compete with mass production.
But despite these challenges, this art form has survived with a lot of help from efforts of artisans themselves, communities, and some organisations. There have been some initiatives run by the government like sponsored workshops and collaborations with modern designers & agencies. Sustainable sourcing practices are becoming a big help in reviving this craft. The growing public appreciation for traditional, handmade products is creating a renewed interest into this wonderful art form.
This centuries-old craft can survive for a much longer time if we can create a balance between tradition and innovation. Keeping the true essence of the craft while adding some contemporary designs to it, can help it cater to the modern sensibilities. Eco-friendly practices added to the craft form, and fair trade principles followed by the agencies involved with the artisan communities, can give purity to the sustainability of the craft.
So, the next time you get a chance to admire a vibrantly handprinted fabric, remember the rhythmic symphony behind it. An impressive ad inspirational legacy of a craft that involves generational knowledge, and the dedication of its artisans. Do remember to indulge in and promote ethical consumerism by buying handicraft items from these traditional craft artisans.
REKH Collection
Discover the exquisite beauty of our artisanal handmade carved wooden jewellery. Each piece is meticulously crafted by talented Indian wooden block maker artisans in Uttar Pradesh, ensuring the highest level of quality and authenticity. This jewellery collection is made from Sheesham wood scraps, carefully adorned with the intricate and timeless Mughal technique of wood carving. Each piece is a unique and limited edition design.
But lately, there has been a decrease in demand for block-printed fabrics, and as a result, a decline in block-making artisans following this amazing craft. Hence, this collection was born from the wish to lend a small, but willing helping hand to support Indian crafts and it’s artisans.
For this collection, Design5 worked in collaboration with the highly skilled team of Shilp Guru Sardar Hussain (1942- 2021), along with his two sons, in his hometown in Chhipiwara, Uttar Pradesh. He was a master craftperson ( National Awardee) and was a fourth generation craftsman originating from Farrukhabad. He and his sons also mastered the art of intricate Mughal technique of wood carving on blocks used for printing textiles.
Wearing our Artisanal Handmade Wooden Carving Jewellery is not just an accessory, but a celebration of heritage, culture, and the timeless beauty of handmade craftsmanship. Elevate your style with the beauty and artistry of my Artisanal Handmade Wooden Carving Jewellery collection. Embrace the elegance and artistry of this collection, and experience the beauty of craftsmanship that transcends time.
