Evolving Traditions: A Comparative Study of Terracotta Artefacts from Panchmura and Asharikandi Villages in India

The tradition of terracotta artefacts holds a prominent place in India's cultural heritage, significantly contributing to artistic imagination and creativity.In India, the evolution of terracotta artwork shows an unapparelled development from their initial rudimentary forms to their current aesthetically refined designs, as well as to elucidate the techniques employed in their creation.Additionally, this study investigates the religious and mythological significance of terracotta artworks from Panchmura village in Bankura, West Bengal, and Asharikandi village in Dhubri, Assam, by examining their adherence to, or deviation from, traditional methods and concepts in contemporary practice.Both regions produce numerous artefacts that distinguish them in terms of traditional knowledge, transition from traditional to modern designs, folklore themes, and cultural exchanges in artwork communication.The objective of this study is to ascertain their distinct identities and stylisations which are influenced by local themes, motifs, and compositions.This research examines the development of distinct terracotta artefacts in these regions and seeks to understand aesthetic considerations in the preparation of such toys across generations.This form of art continues to be practiced in various regions of India to preserve this tradition.Although terracotta artwork is produced for both functional and decorative purposes in many parts of India but terracotta toys result from the spontaneous creative process of artisans in rural areas, which enhances the beauty and simplicity of these artwork.This article focuses on the primary influences, cultural identity, and comparison between the two regions in terms of techniques, forms, and incorporation of contemporary design.