Painting as if it were Paradise
Originating in Persia, Meenakari is enamel art work on a canvas of jewellery. The term Meenakari comes from Mina, meaning paradise, and Kari, referring to working on an object.
The Making
The artists first mould and cast a metal sheet for enamelling. Then, an engraved impression of the design is formed by pressing the mould on the sheet. The enamel design is made by crushing glass and then mixing it with pomegranate seeds and water. This crushed glass concoction, made with mortar and pestle, is applied onto a blistering hot sheet with fine needles, brushes or spokes.
The Legacy
Enamelling can be done in different colours, like red, green, white or even gold. However, the most famous and traditional colour is blue, made with cobalt oxide. This art form was brought to India in the 16th century by Mughal rulers.