The Stone Crafts of Rajasthan: A Guide

This is an exhaustive work on the stone crafts of Rajasthan that introduces the readers to various aspects of its stone industry. Beginning with the origins and material characteristics of different stone types in Rajasthan, it presents the history and geology of stone in Rajasthan, listing skilled stone craftspersons. It discusses formation of stones, their application and their importance in the modern construction industry. It throws light on local traditions of artisanship and clan lineages of stone carvers and agrarian communities that comprise the segment of ‘new generation’ artisans. It covers training of the artisans in the contemporary context and use of new method by them. It discusses the theme by taking up nine clusters—historically established and home to craftspersons with indigenous knowledge and practice of stone craft-giving information on each cluster: its geographical spread, quarry locations, craft workshops, processes of dressing and finishing, and range of products available.