Delhi is where the art of ivory carving flourished under the influence of the Mughal princes. The art developed a characteristic form with the use of floral motifs and intricate geometrical patterns worked in fine jali-lattice work.
Delhi craftsmen also make the elephant with the hoodah, the whole structure carved out of just one piece. The chains and jewels decorating the elephant are all delicately caved out of a solid piece of ivory and each link can be separately lifted. Besides, the virtuosity in technique, the stylisation is similar to the Mughal tradition of sculpture. Delhi has also grown in importance as a manufacturing centre of ivory jewellery.
Topic
Arts & Crafts