Shekhawati Wall Plate by Master ArtisanBhairunlal Swarankar and Nand Kishore Swarankar
SIZE: 11 inch (diameter)
MEDIUM: Natural Colours on Handmade plate
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: This Shekhawati wall plate portrays Geru (Red Ochre) from iron oxide for the deity's skin, complemented by Hartal (Orpiment Yellow) for garments. The background is Haldi (Turmeric Yellow) + Red Ochre, while Neel (Indigo Blue) from indigo plants forms the sky. Malachite Green from copper carbonate colors the base, and Safeda (Lime White) highlights details. The lotus petals feature Pink, created by blending Geru + Safeda. Kaajal (Lamp Black) outlines, with golden accents mixing Orpiment Yellow + Red Ochre. Each color undergoes a meticulous elaborate process of sourcing natural materials, cleaning, crushing, mixing with water and adding adhesives.
The Divine Keeper of Prosperity
In the havelis of Shekhawati, Ganesha, the god of beginnings, holds a place of honor in vibrant frescoes. As the remover of obstacles, his blessings were essential to the region’s merchants, symbolizing prosperity, wisdom, and success.
President Awardee Bhairunlal Swarnkar brings Ganesha to life in diverse forms, seated on a singhasan (throne), atop his vahan (rat), or uniquely on a kamaltalai (lotus), blending the elegance of Shekhawati and Basholi art styles. These depictions, both serene and powerful, showcase artistic ingenuity.
Often painted alongside Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, Ganesha embodied fortune and guidance for businesses. His lotus seat symbolizes purity, while his presence reflects devotion and aspiration. These frescoes intertwine art, faith, and daily life, preserving Shekhawati’s rich heritage.
