Rigvedic

The Rigvedic literature being religion based describes mainly such objects of art and crafts as were directly or indirectly associated with the religious rituals. Though, the artistic inclination of our ancestors are not revealed, we can peek into their life-styles. The ancient objects were at times described in terms of the supernatural to create awe toward them.

The main types of vessels, pots and pans referred to in Rigveda are many. The general term used for pot in the Rigvedic literature is Patra. It soon acquired a generic connotation and began to be used for pots of all specifications.

The most popular material used for making vessels, specially those meant for offering sacrifices and worship, was wood, while clay pots were made for domestic uses. References to metal pots too have been found. Leather too is mentioned as having been used for making vessels.

Rigveda remains silent on the various techniques in the making of these vessels and other objects. But it does have references of different materials in use. Ironically, wooden vessels in those days were used to drink and store alcohol. But they were also considered auspicious as they were used to perform yajnas.

Besides wood, metallic vessels were very popular, and ornaments and vessels were made out of these. Interestingly, the scriptures also mention the use of gold and silver. Earthen ware being the simplest to make, failed to make it to the scriptures because wood was considered auspicious and metal exotic.

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