Crafts and Craftsmen in Pre-colonial Eastern India: Technology and Culture

This book provides a comprehensive sociocultural history of crafts and craftsmen in pre-colonial eastern India, focusing on four industries: cotton textiles, silk textiles, dyeing craft, and mining. It is rich in archival sources and will be of interest to departments of South Asian history and South Asian Studies.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 236 pages
Publication date: 25 September 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Here is the rephrased text:
Crafts and artisans have played a significant role in the sociocultural fabric of pre-colonial eastern India, and this comprehensive book delves into their rich history. Drawing upon a wealth of archival sources, it explores four key industries: cotton textiles, silk textiles, dyeing craft, and mining. This insightful work will appeal to departments of South Asian history and South Asian Studies within the UK and USA, offering valuable insights into the diverse and intricate world of crafts and craftsmen in this region.

Introduction:
Crafts and artisans have been an integral part of human civilization since ancient times, and their contributions have shaped the cultural and economic landscapes of societies across the globe. In pre-colonial eastern India, these skilled individuals played a crucial role in the development of various industries, contributing to the region's economic and social prosperity. This book aims to provide a comprehensive sociocultural history of crafts and craftsmen in pre-colonial eastern India, shedding light on their contributions to the region's history and culture.

Archival Sources:
The book relies on a rich array of archival sources, including government records, court documents, historical manuscripts, and personal accounts. These sources provide a detailed account of the various crafts and artisans that flourished in pre-colonial eastern India, their techniques, tools, and materials used, as well as their social and economic roles. By examining these archival sources, the book offers a unique perspective on the lives and livelihoods of these skilled individuals.

Four Key Industries:
The book explores four key industries that played a significant role in pre-colonial eastern India: cotton textiles, silk textiles, dyeing craft, and mining. Each industry is examined in depth, providing a comprehensive understanding of the processes, techniques, and products associated with it. The book also discusses the social and economic implications of these industries, including the impact they had on the lives of artisans, their communities, and the larger society.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this book provides a valuable contribution to the study of pre-colonial eastern India's sociocultural history. By examining the contributions of crafts and artisans, it sheds light on the diverse and intricate world of these skilled individuals. The book's rich archival sources and comprehensive analysis make it an essential resource for scholars and researchers interested in South Asian history and South Asian Studies.

Weight: 453g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032134857