Kashi is the historical and cultural art of Pakistan. It has its roots in ancient and famous Gandhara art which dates back to first century AD. It consists of glazed blue and white coloured painted terracotta tiles. Kashigari is very sophisticated form of art which looks very attractive because of its sharp colours and beautiful designs. If you watch it carefully you would see how delicately and creatively each deign has been made by the expert professional, keeping the quality intact in each piece of art. This profession has been passed on to generation after generations as their family occupation.
Sadly, because of low income and insufficient resources this art is also fading in Pakistan. Lack of exposure and joblessness has made those craftsmen to look for other work leaving their ancestor's work behind forever.
This art is common in Multan, Lahore, Thatta, Hala, Nisarpur etc. There are lots of ancient buildings which are decorated by Kashi tiles on them. Which makes them look beautiful and eye catching. There is a special technique used to make these tiles. Blue colour is made by mixing cobalt oxide and copper oxide on high temperature through a special way.
Tiles from some tombs, shrines and mosques are on display in the museums in Pakistan and abroad. Artists are using it in other practical things like Lamps, crockery, candle stands, vases and jars which captures the eyes of people around the world.
Sadly, because of low income and insufficient resources this art is also fading in Pakistan. Lack of exposure and joblessness has made those craftsmen to look for other work leaving their ancestor's work behind forever.
This art is common in Multan, Lahore, Thatta, Hala, Nisarpur etc. There are lots of ancient buildings which are decorated by Kashi tiles on them. Which makes them look beautiful and eye catching. There is a special technique used to make these tiles. Blue colour is made by mixing cobalt oxide and copper oxide on high temperature through a special way.
Tiles from some tombs, shrines and mosques are on display in the museums in Pakistan and abroad. Artists are using it in other practical things like Lamps, crockery, candle stands, vases and jars which captures the eyes of people around the world.
