Significant collection of Folk Art
Traditional folk artisans of Bangladesh have laid their great contributions and skills to this art in different mediums. And, they have also the importance of the cultural, social and ritual background, which is closely associated with every aspect of such findings, and it continues to be an integral part of the country since its early period. Chittagong University Museum has a significant collection of Folk Art.
Wood, the natural building medium of the region, was also adapted to the requirements of decorative art and architecture. Arches, columns, lintels, pilasters, images and other relief works were carved in wood with fine craftsmanship. The museum has 66 pieces of wooden architectural decorative works and images.
The fascinating and traditional painted pottery both – the ritual and secular viz. different kind of small pottery as well as painted terracotta toys & dolls is a conspicuous feature of folk art in Bangladesh. Clay or terracotta cult-figurines and the toys are designed for only temporary use- in seasonal festivals, domestic rites or children’s play. Readily accessible materials such as clay, wood, paper, straw, jute, cloth, and cane are thus manipulated with swift dexterity in age-old forms.
This museum has gathered a remarkable collection of dolls, toys, images, vessels and embroidered hand-fans from Chittagong through a survey scheme.
Chittagong University Museum has a small collection of alloy ornaments what reflects high handiwork of the Karmakaras (blacksmith). The modest collection of porcelain outside Bangal has been gained.
The tradition of folk art has bloomed in such a region with a pure indigenous artistic impact and quality that is closely associated with the earth & environment, mind and memory of the traditional artisan groups of all. In that respect, it is a huge accumulation of household utensils made of brass, copper and aluminum. Baskets made of cane; inscription
of the old Bangla script, tribal ornaments, metal ware, pati (mat), Nakshi
Kantha (embroidered quilt) water pot, palanquin, lanterns, Hukka (tobacco
pipe), chest, mask, bow, tambourine etc. are being showcased in the folk art gallery. Hand-woven textile machine and gramophone have recently been added.
