It is the medieval times and India has been witnessing a steady flow of foreign conquerors, tradesmen and travellers. These ties have nurtured many new and hybrid arts, amongst which blue pottery is slowly gaining royal patronage.

The pottery has travelled across Central Asia, bringing to the subcontinent Chinese glazing technology and influences from Persian decorative arts. These wares are made of an Egyptian paste, glazed and fired at low temperatures. The deep blue colour is obtained from cobalt oxide or gila-lazwart, as it is known in Persia.

Once the city of Jaipur will be established in 1772, it will attract artisans and craftsmen from across India - blue pottery will then journey westwards, from the courts of Delhi. Under Sawai Jai Singh II’s encouragement this practice will flourish to such a degree that Jaipur will grow into a prominent centre - and several centuries forth, blue pottery ware will be collected as keepsakes of craft from the region.

Bowls from Chinhat, Lucknow
Designer: Unknown
Year: c. 1960