Mughal Miniature Wall Plate by Master Artisan Ravi Kumawat
SIZE: 7 inch (diameter)MEDIUM: Natural Colours on Handmade plate mounted on a wooden base.
MAKING OF THE PLATE: The base plate is a cotton canvas pasted onto a moulded plate using tamarind paste. A mixture of chalk powder and multani mitti is applied, dried, and smoothened with stone for a polished canvas. To prevent insect damage we use crushed neem leaves. With multiple layers of coating, drying, and finishing, the complete plate-making process spans three full days.
NATURAL COLOURS: The soft blue background is created using indigo extracted from the indigo plant, with a lighter hue achieved by dilution. The lush greens are derived from Hara Bhata, a green stone finely ground and filtered, with darker shades formed through increased concentration. The warm yellow tones come from Pili Mitti, a natural yellow earth pigment. White is sourced from chalk or limestone, while black is made from the soot of burnt wood. The delicate grey hues are achieved by blending black and white. Framed with a golden border, this artwork beautifully showcases traditional craftsmanship and nature’s colors.
The Ibis in Repose
The African ibis, one of Ravi Kumawat Ji’s favourite birds, is a graceful creature admired for its beauty and devotion. Every morning, it rises with the first rays of the sun and makes its way to the river or lake. With its long, slender beak, the ibis skillfully catches fish, not just for itself but also for its young ones waiting eagerly in the nest. Its beak, perfectly designed by nature, allows it to dive deep and find food with ease. Beyond its daily routine, the ibis holds an integral place in the ecosystem, symbolizing balance, care, and resilience, a bird of grace and responsibility.
