Stone Works

Stone works in Bihar have a rich tradition dating back to the pre-Christian era. Bihar's stone works are both of decorative and utility character. The base of stone works in Bihar are centered around the Pattharkatti region of Atri in Gaya. However, some artisans of Gaya also practice the art and have been doing so for hundreds of years.

The Buddhist influence is integrally connected to the tradition of Bihar's stone works. It is in and around the important Buddhist sites, that the stone works of Bihar are at its best. Most of the stone works represent the head of Buddha and sometimes the full body of the sage are made out of the luminescent grey-green stones of the neighboring hills of the Gaya region. They involve consummate mastery on the part of the stone-carvers and applies knowledge in carving that have been handed down to them through age-old tradition. However, recent years have seen a preference of Ganesha images to the Buddha images following the demands of the buyers and collectors.

Another form of stone works from Bihar involves the use of black stones brought from the adjoining hills of Gaya region. These stone works are excellent for tableware. Great plates, tapering glasses, glass covers and coasters are the usual products made out of these stones. Although rarely used as a part of everyday activities, these stone works are extremely popular as collectibles. They are also used for religious purposes like placing offerings to the gods and the goddesses. Although steeped in tradition Bihar stone works is far from stagnant. The artisans are continuously innovating, trying to come up with new items that suit the needs of the times more successfully.