Paperweight with a flat base
The rectangular-shaped stone paperweight is a traditional craft object of the Odisha state Santal tribe that has a very rich cultural heritage and tradition of crafts. The paperweight is functional, and being an expertly crafted piece of art, it incorporates the Santal peoples' efficiency in carving stone as well as the deep spirit of harmony with nature. Dorsal surface has relief designs with a flower petal at the 4 corners of the rectangle. The symmetrical design of the flower suggests harmony and balance which are the elements essential with cycles of nature in Santal culture. The relief technique followed by artisans emphasizes the superior craftsmanship with which they convert a simple stone into a wonder of patterns with large visual impacts.
Four floral designs are engraved on the sides of the paperweight as enrichment to its beauty. This floral design, typically Santal, symbolizes the key concepts that are life, fertility, and growth, all of which are very essential in the cultural and spiritual beliefs of the Santal. The automatic reiteration of the floral pattern along the edges serves to affirm the tribe's complete ties with nature to survive. Flat-bottomed, the paperweight provides good balance and stability during functioning; besides, the material-stone is testimony to how resourceful the Santal tribe has been, utilizing local resource for practical and artistic purposes. This rectangular paperweight is a perfect example of Santal artistry in terms of culture and functionality.