Leather Hand Fan, Kutch, Gujarat
Technical Data
| Date of Issue | December 30, 2017 |
|---|---|
| Denomination | Rs. 15 |
| Quantity | 100,000 |
| Perforation | 13 |
| Printer | India Security Press, Nashik |
| Printing Process | Wet Offset |
| Watermark | No Watermark |
| Colors | Multicolor |
| Credit (Designed By) | Ms. Nenu Gupta Shri. jatin Das |
| Catalog Codes |
Michel IN 3318 Yvert et Tellier IN 3009 Stanley Gibbons IN 3444 |
| Themes | Crafts |
The Artistic Craft of Kutch, Gujarat
Introduction
The Leather Hand Fan from Kutch, Gujarat is a remarkable example of India’s traditional artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural expression. Crafted by skilled artisans using locally sourced leather, this hand fan reflects the region’s rich heritage of leatherwork — blending utility, beauty, and traditional techniques passed down through generations. These fans were once an essential part of daily life, used to create gentle breezes in royal courts, temples, and households across western India.
Historical Background
The use of hand fans in India dates back thousands of years, with references found in ancient texts like the Mahabharata. Fans were not only instruments for comfort but also held ceremonial and symbolic value, often used to fan deities in temples and royalty in palaces.
In the arid landscapes of Kutch, Gujarat, where leathercraft has flourished for centuries, artisans adapted their skills to create leather hand fans that were durable, ornate, and functional. These fans represent the ingenuity of desert communities who turned natural materials like animal hide into works of beauty and practicality.
Craftsmanship and Design
The Leather Hand Fan from Kutch is meticulously handcrafted. The leather is cleaned, tanned, cut, and shaped into the desired fan form. Artisans then thread the leather with cords, hand-stitching the seams with precision to create both strength and intricate detail.
Some fans are decorated with colorful embroidery, punched motifs, or embossed designs, reflecting the distinctive Kutchi folk art style. Handles are often made of wood or bamboo, wrapped in leather strips or cords for added grip.
The finished fan displays a perfect harmony between rugged durability and artistic finesse, capturing the essence of Kutch’s traditional craft heritage.
Cultural Significance
The Leather Hand Fan is not just a cooling device; it is a symbol of craftsmanship and tradition. In earlier times, such fans were used by nobles, travelers, and temple attendants, signifying both elegance and functionality. The fans were also part of local rituals and festivals, serving as ceremonial accessories in religious and social gatherings.
Even today, leather artisans of Kutch continue to preserve this art form, producing hand fans that appeal to collectors and craft enthusiasts. These fans are celebrated for their eco-friendly, handcrafted quality, representing a sustainable alternative to modern materials.
Commemorative Postage Stamp
To honor India’s traditional crafts, the Department of Posts released a commemorative postage stamp series on Indian Hand Fans, showcasing sixteen exquisite varieties from across the nation. Among them, the Leather Hand Fan from Kutch, Gujarat, holds a special place.
The stamp captures the fan’s textured craftsmanship, traditional stitching, and earthy tones, paying tribute to the artisan communities who have kept this ancient skill alive. It serves as a philatelic celebration of India’s handmade traditions and cultural diversity.
Legacy of the Leather Hand Fan
The Leather Hand Fan of Kutch stands as a timeless embodiment of Indian craftsmanship and rural artistry. Made from natural materials and shaped by generations of skilled hands, it represents a fusion of tradition, aesthetics, and sustainability.
Through its commemorative stamp, this elegant and enduring artifact is immortalized in India’s postal heritage, celebrating the artistry of Kutch and the enduring spirit of India’s craft culture.