“Life is just like Potter’s Clay, it gets shaped by our own hands”
The art of Hala pottery dates back to the Indus Valley Civilization, which flourished in Pakistan around 2500 BCE. This ancient civilisation was known for its advanced knowledge of handmade- pottery; Hala pottery is believed to be a continuation of this tradition. Hala pottery is a testament to the skill and creativity of Pakistani potters and is a treasure of Pakistani heritage. Hala pottery is known for its intricate designs and delicate craftsmanship.
Hala pottery is made using a combination of traditional techniques and modern tools. The potters start by shaping the clay into the desired form using a pottery wheel. Once the shape is achieved, the potter starts to decorate the pottery using a variety of techniques such as incising, piercing and painting. The intricate designs are created using a thin needle-like tool called a Kolam. The potters use a variety of colours and patterns to decorate the pottery, including floral patterns, geometric shapes, and animals. The pottery is then glazed and fired in a kiln to give it a glossy finish.
Hala pottery is not only beautiful to look at but is also functional. The pottery is used for a variety of purposes including storing grains, serving food and storing water. It is also used as decorative pieces in homes and gardens. Despite facing challenges due to the availability of cheaper, mass-produced pottery, Hala pottery has managed to maintain its popularity due to its uniqueness and traditional appeal. It is now recognised as a symbol of authentic, Pakistani culture and is exported to various parts of the world.