Mud and Mirror Work (also known as Lippan Kaam) is a traditional mural craft of Kachchh, Gujarat, India. Lippan or mud-washing using materials locally available in the region like mixture of clay and camel dung keeps the interiors of the houses cool. These scintillating murals bring life, gaiety, and beauty to generally harsh life of people of Kachchh.
Mud and Mirror Work is mainly done by the women of the Rabari community. This art form has a hoary past as no records are available to trace its origin. Various communities in Kachchh do mud-washing in their own distinct style. Artisans of the Muslim community practicing this art form stick to graphic and eye-catching geometric patterns of lippan kaam, as depicting the human or animal form is considered deeply un-Islamic.
Mud mirror work gathered attention of the modern world for its intricate pattern and aesthetic perfection and has made a full transition from its unknown modest stature to the mainstream art world, decorating the walls of urban homes.
Attractive wall pieces with small mirrors are made in Kachchh and Kheda districts of Gujarat. Traditional clay utensils like pots, Tawadi, Plates, Bowls etc.,with hand paintings are made in Kachchh district.
