Maharaja Man Singh I got the art of Meenakari in Jaipur from _____.

The correct answer is Lahore.

Key Points

• Maharaja Man Singh I, the ruler of Amber (Jaipur), is credited with introducing the art of Meenakari (enamel work) to Rajasthan.
• He brought skilled artisans from Lahore to Jaipur during his reign in the late 16th century.
• Meenakari was traditionally used to decorate jewelry and other objects, combining vibrant colors with intricate designs.
• The art form flourished under royal patronage and became an integral part of Jaipur's rich artistic heritage.
• Jaipur is now globally renowned for its exquisite Meenakari work, especially in jewelry making.

Additional Information

• Meenakari
  • It is the art of decorating metal surfaces with intricate designs using colored enamel.
  • The technique involves fusing powdered colored glass onto metal surfaces through intense heat.
  • Gold is traditionally used as the base metal for Meenakari due to its compatibility with the enamel, though silver and copper are also used.
  • It is often combined with Kundan and Jadau jewelry to create elaborate designs.
• Historical Context
  • Maharaja Man Singh I ruled Amber (now Jaipur) from 1589 to 1614 during the Mughal era.
  • He was a trusted general of Emperor Akbar and established a strong cultural and artistic influence in his kingdom.
  • The introduction of Meenakari to Jaipur reflects the fusion of Mughal and Rajput art traditions.
• Jaipur as an Artistic Hub
  • Jaipur is often referred to as the "Pink City" and has been a center for craftsmanship and artistry since its foundation in 1727.
  • It is especially famous for its jewelry-making traditions, including Meenakari, Kundan, and Jadau techniques.
  • The city attracts artisans and patrons from across the world for its distinctive artistic heritage.
• Modern Relevance
  • Meenakari jewelry and artifacts are highly sought after in domestic and international markets.
  • The art form is protected and promoted as part of India’s cultural heritage.
  • Efforts are being made to train new generations of artisans to preserve this traditional craft.