Handstitched Juttis
in Embroidered
Jaipur leather craft is synonymous with age-old techniques and creative traditions. Jaipur, the capital city of Rajasthan, is renowned for its superb leathercraft, which is a reflection of the area's rich cultural past. From Jaipur mojdi to Jaipur jutti, tourists always ensure to grab some of the best leather handicrafts from this city. The leather market in Jaipur is bustling with tourists all year round looking for the famous Jaipur ki jutti.
In this blog, let us delve into the fascinating world of Jaipur leather craft and learn how is leather made, its distinctive designs and how it has become a household name today.
Historical Significance of Jaipur Leather Craft
The centuries-old craft of leatherwork in Jaipur is anchored in the deft hands of native artisans who have passed on their knowledge from generation to generation. The history of the city's connection to leather dates back to the Mughal era, when Jaipur was a thriving centre for trade and handicrafts.
In the 18th century, under Maharaja Sawai Jai Singh II, Jaipur leatherwork rose to prominence. As a result of Maharaja's support for the arts and encouragement of innovation, distinctive leather patterns and methods have been developed. With time, Jaipur gained a reputation for producing sophisticated leather goods and leather handicrafts that drew collectors and connoisseurs from all over the world.
How is Leather Made?
Before delving into some of the mesmerizing creations of leather handicrafts from Jaipur, let us understand how is leather made. Leathermaking involves a process called tanning. The artisans gather raw animal hides or skins, typically from cattle, sheep, or goats. To get rid of contaminants, the hides are cleansed and given a water soak. The next step is "tanning," which involves using chemicals to protect the hides and stop deterioration. Vegetable extracts are used in vegetable tanning. The skins are dried, stretched, and softened after tanning using a variety of methods, including polishing and conditioning. To obtain the required appearance and feel, the leather is finally coloured and polished and then used for leather handicrafts.
Techniques and Craftsmanship of Jaipur Leather Craft
The level of craftsmanship used in leatherwork from Jaipur is amazing. Each piece is painstakingly handmade by skilled artists, who use a variety of methods to create mesmerizing leather handicraft products.
Different kinds of leather are used for various purposes. For instance, strong and thick buffalo leather is used for the outer sole, which is the section of the shoe that is thickest and most susceptible to wear and tear. Suede leather makes up for the upper portion as it can be readily punched. A particular sort of thread is used for the needlework; it has the sheen and softness of silk, but the strength and resistance to wear of nylon.
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Unique Creations of Jaipur Leather Work
The skilled artisans of Jaipur have perfected the ability to transform leather into stunning works of art that are treasured worldwide. Their deft hands have given us stunning works from leather wallets and handbags to Jaipur jutti and different accessories.
Jaipur ki Jutti
Jaipur Mojdi or Jaipur Juti is the most famous footwear in northern India. It is also known by various names like mojari, desi jutti, Jaipur ki jutti etc. These handcrafted Jaipur Jutis are heavily embroidered with colourful thread or embellishments. One piece of leather or fabric is used for the uppers, which are then stitched and decorated with brass nails, cowry shells, mirrors, bells, ceramic beads and more. Leather Market in Jaipur is known for their selection of beautiful footwear. However, today you can find exquisite Jaipur Leather footwear online too.
Leather Handbags
The skilled leather workers in Jaipur also produce a gorgeous selection of leather handbags and accessories in addition to the famous Jaipur mojaris. Each item, from exquisitely tooled belts and wallets to deftly carved leather bags, is a monument to the skill and imagination of the artists. Traditional methods and modern designs combine to create products made of Jaipur leather that is ageless, adaptable, and pleasing to a variety of tastes.
Takeaway
The exquisite aesthetic traditions and workmanship that have flourished in the area for ages are reflected in Jaipur leather work. The elaborate designs, vivid colours, and unmatched quality of the leather craftsmen of Jaipur continue to enthral the world. Each item, whether it be a handbag, an accessory, or a pair of Jaipur jutti, bears a history and a legacy. Along with beautiful leather handicrafts from Jaipur, you can find a variety of Indian handicrafts from various states on iTokri because we bring quality handcrafted products directly from artisans across India just for you.
FAQs on Jaipur Leather Crafts
1. Which leather is famous in Rajasthan?
Camel hide is a popular leather from Rajasthan. The most famous leather wear from Rajasthan is Jaipur mojdi and Jaipur jutti.
2. What are the leading Leather handicrafts found in Jaipur?
Some of the best leather handicrafts in Jaipur are Jaipur jutti or Jaipur mojdi, leather handbags, leather notebooks and diaries and more.
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