Dancing peacock wall pannel

Artwork Details

. The Central Motif: A Peacock

The focal point of the artwork is a stylized peacock, a symbol of royalty, beauty, and immortality in Indian culture. The bird is meticulously crafted from small, hand-blown pieces of Thikri glass, possibly in different colors or backed with various materials to achieve the shimmering, iridescent effect. The fanned tail feathers, a signature element of the peacock, are rendered with exquisite detail, with each "eye" or spot likely being a separate, small piece of polished glass or stone. The use of a peacock as the subject is a classic motif in Thikri art, often found in royal palaces and traditional homes.

2. The Thikri Technique

Unlike modern mosaics made with pre-cut tiles, Thikri art is a highly specialized and labor-intensive process. The artisan first prepares a base, often a mixture of lime plaster and marble dust, on which the design is drawn. The glass pieces are then cut by hand, often using a diamond-tipped tool, into the desired shapes and sizes. These pieces are then meticulously inlaid into the still-damp base, following the intricate design. The process is a testament to the artisan's skill and patience, as each shard must be perfectly placed to form a cohesive and beautiful pattern.

3. The Mirrored Border

The large, reflective border is a key characteristic of Thikri glasswork. The individual mirrored tiles are not just decorative; they are a fundamental part of the art form. When placed at angles in a geometric, diamond pattern, they catch and refract light from every direction. This creates a mesmerizing, shimmering effect that transforms the piece from a simple decoration into a dynamic visual experience. This technique was famously used in the Sheesh Mahals (palaces of mirrors) of Rajasthan, where the walls and ceilings were adorned with Thikri work to create a dazzling, expanded sense of space, especially under candlelight.

4. Cultural and Historical Context

Thikri art has its roots in the royal courts of Rajasthan, particularly in the city of Udaipur, where it was used to adorn the walls, ceilings, and furniture of palaces and havelis. This art form was not only a display of wealth and patronage but also a symbol of the artistic and aesthetic sophistication of the Rajput rulers. The fusion of intricate glasswork with traditional motifs like the peacock reflects a deep connection to the region's cultural heritage.

In summary, this piece is not just a simple mirror; it is a handcrafted work of Thikri glasswork, representing a rich tradition of artistic excellence and cultural significance from Rajasthan, India.

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