Potters without a Wheel: Ethnography of the Mritshilpis in Kolkata

This book explores the identity of clay idol-makers in Kumartuli, Kolkata, India, as mritshilpis, or clay artists, who work with their hands instead of a wheel. It examines how they embrace and expand their market based on this variation and elevated status, and how commodity markets are shaped by urbanisation, popular demand, corporatisation, and commodification of culture. It highlights the larger structural relationship between urbanisation, indigenous occupational categories, and identity politics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 160 pages
Publication date: 29 January 2024
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

This captivating book delves into the intricate world of clay idol-makers in Kumartuli, Kolkata, India, shedding light on their remarkable visibility and profound influence on the city's creative culture. For over a century, these talented artists have played a pivotal role in shaping the identity of Kolkata, creating idols that are not just mere objects but symbols of cultural heritage and artistic excellence.

In this ethnographic study, the author explores the unique identity of these idol-makers as "mritshilpis," or clay artists, who stand apart from ordinary potters by employing their hands instead of a wheel. The book delves into the conscious efforts of these artists to embrace and expand their market based on their elevated status as artists rather than artisans. It examines the deep-rooted embeddedness of this identity within the commodity markets, where clay idols become coveted possessions and cultural symbols.

The book also highlights the broader structural relationship between urbanization, indigenous occupational categories, and identity politics. It sheds light on how trends of urbanization, popular demand, corporatization, and commodification of culture have shaped the contours of clay idol-making as both an occupation and a brand identity. Through extensive fieldwork and in-depth interviews, the author brings to life the stories and experiences of these clay idol-makers, providing a rich and nuanced understanding of their world.

This book is a valuable resource for scholars and researchers across a wide range of disciplines, including sociology, social anthropology, political studies, cultural history, urban economy, art history, urbanization, cultural studies, and urban sociology. It offers insightful perspectives and valuable insights into the complex dynamics of urban culture, identity, and the intersection of tradition and modernity.

In conclusion, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the rich tapestry of India's cultural heritage and the profound impact of artistic expression. It provides a captivating glimpse into the lives and livelihoods of clay idol-makers, shedding light on the intricate relationship between creativity, identity, and the marketplace.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032282732