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Design Resource
Lippan Kaam - Kutch
Traditional Mural Craft
by
Introduction
Mud and mirror work also known as Lippan kaam is a traditional mural craft of Kutch. It is also called as Chittar kaam. Its origins are not known even though various communities in Kutch do mud-relief work and have their own distinct style. Most communities live in circular mud houses known as Bhungas that have thatched roofs. These houses have evolved over the years to survive the harsh climatic conditions of Kutch. The inner walls of the homes are adorned with decorative mud-mirror work. Materials used are locally available in the region. The glittering mirrors in the mud-relief work brighten up the interiors of the houses with just a single lamp. Though the work is limited mainly to the interior walls, it can be found on the outer walls as well. Commonly made designs consist of peacock, camel, elephant, water bearer women, women churning buttermilk, temples, mango tree, etc. The Muslim communities however only use geometric patterns as usage of human or animal symbols is forbidden by their religion.
Further Reading:
• Nora Fisher (1995); Mud Mirror and Thread: Folk Traditions of Rural India.
• Archana Shah (2013); Shifting Sands, Kutch: A Land in Transition.
