Terracotta literally means ‘baked earth’ and is made from natural clay, giving it a reddish-brown colour. It may be glazed for durability or to add colour. Being waterproof and sturdy, several ancient sculptures in this clay are still intact. It was used traditionally to create figures of deities on festive occasions and ceremonies besides its use in jewellery and handicrafts. The temples of Bishnupur, Murshidabad, Birbhum and Hooghly in West Bengal are superior examples of terracotta creativity. Terracotta earrings are a favourite of college goers.
