DEEN DAYAL
RAJKUMAR - Enamel Jewellery
Enameling-
Famous
Art of Manufacturing Enameled Gold Silver Jewelry
At the end of the 16 century Raja Man Singh of Jaipur invited
five skilled enamel workers from Lahore. There descendents today
are some of the world's best gold workers and enamelers. Rajasthani
enameling or Meenakari is an elaborate process. After the gold
is given the required shape ,it is covered with lac or sealing
wax. Then starts the most difficult part.The ornament is scratched
on with a pointed instrument,and the required designs are carved.The
designs are usually images of God, birds and flowers and even
landscapes. Once the designs are made the enamel dust or powder
of different colored glasses is put into the cavities.The ornament
is placed into the red-hot furnace which has two openings and
is lined with tin.The enamel is melt and is diffused proportionately
into the cavities.It is then taken out and burnished with a wet
stone.Then process is repeated until the required polish is attained.
Sometimes it takes months to finish one piece of jewellery. The
standards of excellence have been maintained over the years and
the occupation is hereditary. But not everyone in the family of
enamelers can become an enameler. It requires penetrating eyes,
full attrention and patience. Once given a commission,most artists
retire to their country homes so not as to be disturbed during
the work.
The
enamelers of Jaipur designs the best pendants, necklaces, anklets,
naths, bajuband, bhichiyes and even spoons, knives, key chains
and cuffinks.
One
of the best known Jaipur enameler was Shri DEEN DAYAL MEENAKAR.
He has made a small elephant of gold which is considered one of
the best Jaipur enamel work,and was exhibited at many art exhibitions
in various part of the country.He won national award in 1968.
Shri DEEN DAYAL died in 1985 and his son Shri RAJKUMAR SANKIT
and his grandson DEEPAK SANKIT are now following his tradition.
Enameling
Workshops are being conducted every month in Jaipur. Interested
guest can book their workshop online.
