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Hey! Jaipur has a New Museum, and it’s all about Meenakari

Sprawled over 3,000 sq.ft, Jaipur has a new cultural gem, The Museum of Meenakari Heritage (MOMH), curated by renowned jewellery designer Sunita Shekhawat and celebrated historian Dr. Usha Balakrishnan. Discover the secrets behind centuries-old techniques, marvel at exquisite reproductions, and immerse yourself in a journey through the ages of artistic excellence

Post By : Vijetha Rangabashyam On 28 March 2024 12:02 PM

Jaipur is a sensory voyage by itself. Anywhere you look, colours speak to you. Nestled amidst the bustling streets and majestic palaces of the Pink City, this opulent museum beckons visitors with promises of enchantment and discovery. Led by the visionary Sunita Shekhawat and acclaimed historian Dr. Usha Balakrishnan, the museum opens its doors to reveal a world where history comes alive in vibrant hues and intricate patterns.

Here are 15 things you ought to know about MOMH:

1. Founded by renowned jewellery designer Sunita Shekhawat, the museum commemorates her 25 years in the business and serves as a testament to Jaipur's rich heritage of arts and crafts.

2. The MOMH is a culmination of Shekhawat's vision to pay homage to the city that has nurtured her creativity and provided a vibrant ecosystem for artisans and craftsmen.

3. Curated by esteemed jewellery historian Dr. Usha Balakrishnan, the museum offers a captivating journey through the history and evolution of meenakari enamelling.

4. The museum showcases the fascinating interplay between Eastern and Western influences, with European jewellers bringing their expertise to India, drawn by the allure of Golconda diamonds and Burmese rubies.

5. Visitors can explore various techniques of enamelling, including cloisonné, champlevé, plique-à-jour, and basse-taille, each exemplifying the skill and finesse of Indian artisans.

6. While the museum predominantly features reproductions of historical pieces, such as archer’s rings and turban ornaments, each item offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of India's cultural heritage.

7. The MOMH employs audio-visual presentations to offer insights into the artisans' creative process, highlighting the meticulous attention to detail and the precision required in enamelling.

8. Designed by Siddharth Das Studio and built by Studio Lotus, the MOMH's architectural grandeur complements its artistic treasures, offering visitors a sensory feast for the eyes.

9. The museum's inauguration witnessed the presence of luminaries from the worlds of art, fashion, and design, including actor Nandita Das and couturiers Abu Jani and Sandeep Khosla.

10. Images sourced from prestigious institutions like the British Museum and the Victoria & Albert Museum underscore the MOMH's significance as a global repository of meenakari heritage.

11. In addition to its role as a cultural landmark, the museum serves as an educational hub, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of meenakari enamelling among visitors of all ages.

12. Shekhawat's commitment to empowering local artisans and preserving traditional craftsmanship is evident in the museum's ethos of inclusivity and community engagement.

13. With its immersive experiences and rich storytelling, the MOMH is poised to become a must-visit destination for jewellery aficionados and art enthusiasts alike, further cementing Jaipur's status as a cultural hotspot.

14.  By showcasing the legacy of meenakari enamelling, the museum ensures that this ancient art form continues to inspire future generations of artisans and designers, keeping the flame of creativity alive.

15. As visitors meander through the hallowed halls of the MOMH, they are not merely spectators but participants in a timeless journey of beauty, craftsmanship, and cultural exchange—a legacy that transcends borders and spans centuries.

 

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