Shekhawati Wall Plate by Master Artisan Bhairunlal 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 plate showcases Malachite green as its base, forming a striking contrast with the structured floral patterns in Hinglu (vermilion) and Geru (red ochre). The precise geometric framework is highlighted with Safeda (lime white) and Kaajal (black) outlines. Accents of Haldi (yellow) add warmth, while the outer rim is adorned in Neel (indigo), embodying the essence of Shekhawati’s inverted celing patterns found on haveli rooftops.
Echoes of the Ceiling
On the rooftops of Shekhawati’s grand havelis, the Ulti Chat, meaning ceiling, features beautiful geometric patterns that tell stories of art and beauty. This plate, made by Nandkishore Swarnkar, son of President Awardee Bhairunlal Swarnkar, brings back that heritage. The eight-petaled flowers inside neat hexagons reflect the frescoed ceilings where craftsmen turned buildings into poetry. Rich reds and deep greens show prosperity, while golden vines tell tales of wealth. The blue and white border captures the timeless charm of Shekhawati art.