Miniature Figurines/ Clay Toys of Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh

Lucknow is famous for its clay toys which are crafted intricately by the Kumbhars who belong to the Prajapati community. The practice of making these toys began and drew inspiration from the British in the first half of the last century to cater to their interest in collecting vignettes of Indian life. Made and sold in sets these are of two kinds- figurines and fruits. The former are made using cast fro the body and hand-rolled clay for hands and legs while the latter are made using only cast. Products like band sets, serving sets, raja-rani sets, brides, sadhus, erotic toys, and idols etc. are crafted by the artisans. Tools such as terracotta moulds, brushes and wire are used for the process.