Terracotta Traditions of Bengal

Bengal's terracotta tradition stretches back over two thousand years — from the ornate temple panels of Paharpur and Mainamati to the pottery and sculpture being made in village workshops today.

This exhibition brings together archaeological fragments, temple panel reproductions, traditional pottery and contemporary terracotta sculpture to trace an unbroken line of clay craftsmanship across the centuries. Highlights include a reconstructed section of the Somapura Mahavihara terracotta frieze and live pottery demonstrations by master craftsmen from Rajshahi.

A companion workshop series teaches visitors basic hand-building and wheel-throwing techniques.