 Inlay is one of the most
intricate and complicated arts. It is said to have originated in Florence
in Italy in 16th century. It was introduced in India in 17th century by
the Mughals. The art of inlay is called "Parchin kari". Though the art
form of mosaic inlay existed in India before, it was most popularized by
Emperor Shahjahan.
Parchin kari or inlay is the art of setting gemstones and other colored
stones in marble, soapstone or wood. Inlay initially started as marble
decoration craft. As a Mughal craft it was used to decorate the marble
structures with floral and geometrical patterns and calligraphy.
An inlay work product evolves in various stages. First a detailed planning
is done. The design is finalized and cut in a brass sheet. The pattern is
then traced on the marble. Second step involves deciding a color scheme
and material for inlay. The inlay material can be precious and
semi-precious gemstones or colored marble or other stones. Depending upon
the pattern and color scheme, the colored stones are cut and sliced into
different shapes separately. They are finely shaped with the emery wheel.
The pattern is then chiseled in the marble. The size of the chiseled
grooves is exactly the same as the shaped gemstones. These gemstones are
then carefully incorporated into the marble with some adhesive. After it
dries off, the whole product is hand polished.
Agra has the maximum inlay craftsmen making inlay table tops, trinket
boxes, vases, plates, hangings and many such products. The inlay craft
manufacturers these days have made separate categories one involving the
inlay of gemstones and ivory and other involving the inlay of colored
marble and other stones. Soap stone inlay products and wooden inlay
products are also in great demand.
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