The Nirmal art form has been in existence from the early 14th century and was patronized by the Kakatiya dynasty and the Deccan Nawabs. This craft takes its name from the village of Nirmal in Nirmal district. The craft is practiced by a group of artisans known as “Nakkash” who traditionally used to make religious figures but have shifted in the 17th century to utility items like jewellery and trinket boxes, ganjifa boxes, playing cards and khan chibba (food tray covers). The Nirmal painting craft was traditionally used to paint scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharatha as well as from the Indian Schools of Art like Ajanta, Kangra and from Mughal miniatures.
These paintings were greatly admired and patronized by the Mughal rulers in the medieval period and it is said that in the past the Nizam of Hyderabad on visiting Nirmal was given a grand welcome with the artisans decorating the venue and seat of the Nizam in such a way that an intricately designed banana bud suspended over the Nizam’s seat unfurled and a cascade of golden petals were showered on the Nizam. This so overwhelmed him that he began to patronize the artisans. After this it is said that Lady Hydri later on brought the craftsmen to Hyderabad to promote their growth and development.
The colors used in these paintings especially the familiar gold color is produced indigenously from extracts of herbs, gum, vegetable dye and minerals. The canvas used is oil tempered hardboard and the frame is teak wood. The design is traced on the prepared canvas (application of seven coats of putty) and filled out with synthetic paints. After this detailing is taken up including ornamentation and embellishment by way of abundant use of gold paint which adds richness to the painting. After this the canvas is lacquered / varnished. The paintings are mostly done on black back background, though Cream and Red are also sometimes used.
The Nirmal paintings and furniture is practiced in Nirmal Industry at Hyderabad since 1951. A large variety of products including exquisite lacquered furniture, Rocking Chair, Diwan sets, Room screens, boxes, bowls, trays, card holders, Office Organizers, Trinket boxes, Marriage Chowkis, Pooja stands, etc are made in addition to paintings. Diversification into hand painted Kurthas, face masks, stoles, shoes, glass bottles, decorative kettles, sun glasses, combs has been taken up.
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