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Publicasso 2025 26(Art and Media)printed 13 · PDF 15
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The Pakistani Tradition of Sculpting:
Pots, Plates, and Everyday Ceramics
Long before industrial production and modern design,
pottery in Pakistan was both an art and a necessity. From
sculpted clay pots to hand-shaped plates and bowls,
ceramic traditions across the region reflect centuries of
craftsmanship, community, and cultural memory. Even
today, these humble objects carry stories of land, labour,
and lived experience.
Roots in Ancient Civilisations
Pakistan’s ceramic heritage can be traced back to the
Indus Valley Civilisation, where terracotta vessels were
used for storage, cooking, and ritual purposes. These
early forms prioritised function, yet their symmetry,
surface patterns, and earthy textures reveal a deep
aesthetic sensibility. This balance between utility and
beauty remains central to Pakistani pottery.
Regional Styles and Techniques
Different regions developed distinct ceramic identities.
In Multan, blue pottery influenced by Persian and Islamic
art is known for its intricate floral and geometric motifs.
Sindh’s earthenware often features warm reds and
browns, shaped for daily use such as water storage and
cooking. In Punjab, hand-thrown clay pots, plates, and
diyas are traditionally made on wheels, their simplicity
highlighting
the
maker’s
skill
rather
than
ornamentation.
13
.
Cultural and Social Significance
Pottery is deeply woven into Pakistani rituals and
domestic spaces. Clay plates and pots are used in
weddings, religious ceremonies, and seasonal festivals.
The act of shaping clay: slow, physical, and repetitive
stands in contrast to mass production, symbolising
patience, continuity, and respect for craft.
Preservation in a Modern World
Today, Pakistani ceramic traditions face challenges from
industrial alternatives, yet artisan communities and
cultural institutions are working to preserve these skills.
Workshops, exhibitions, and design collaborations
ensure that pottery remains relevant, bridging tradition
with contemporary aesthetics.
The tradition of sculpting pots and plates in Pakistan is
more than craft; it is a living dialogue between past and
present. Each handmade piece carries the touch of its
maker: imperfect, grounded, and enduring, reminding
us that art often begins in everyday life
Sources:
thefridaytimes.com - Preserving Multani
Ceramics and Handicrafts
brecorder.com - Pakistan’s Ceramics
Industry
arabnews.pk - Pakistan’s Northwest
Pottery
By: M. Abdullah Sheraz
Publicasso