2017-05-06 Sat

Varana is often associated with cast system. But did you know Varana also means colour and India is a land of colours which is adorned in her natural and traditional essence! This unique quality of Indian tradition makes it different from the rest of the world. This diversity has inspired many thinkers and artists who swam deep through this ocean of treasures and discovered the unique pearls of different craftsmanship which had only illustrated the beauty of Indian art. One such rare pearl of Indian artistic brilliance is jewellery design of Thewa art.

These vibrant, colourful, exotic, traditional and royal jewellery designs of Rajasthan dwarf all others in comparison. They are closely guarded secrets passed from father to son. Though it was developed in 1767, it is believed the art was invented in 1707 by Nathu Lal Sonewal. It received the patronage of the Maharaja of Kishangarh (Princely state) Samant Singh. It was famous among the Kings of Mewar but it flourished during the Mughal period.

In the Victorian era during the rule of Queen Victoria, it received its recognition in the market of British antiques. For nearly hundreds years, the knowledge of this art was only known to the craftsmen of Pratapgrah and Rampur in Rajasthan and M.P. The delicate design on this jewellery is inspired by nature and the traditional stories of lord Rama and lord Krishna.

To promote and celebrate this significant skill of jewellery making, India Post has issued a commemorative stamp in 2002.

Learn more about Indian traditional weaving craft.

Some interesting facts:

Thewa jewellery is the only jewellery type to use 23ct purity of gold.
This jewellery was given as a gift to Prince Charles on his marriage by Indian Government.
Today this jewellery is produced by Jaipur, Ratlam and Indore.
About 250 years old Thewa jewellery can be seen in the personal collection of Queen Elizabeth and some local Indian and British Museums.
To know more about Indian jewellery Click here.