How have we grouped and rated the art ?

All art is beautiful, often has a rich history and requires considerable skill to create .

However, art is a mix of different aspects; some pieces are really difficult to make, while others are incredibly beautiful and yet wonderfully simple. Some have a history which stretches to the beginning of civilization. Some pieces are valuable because they are made of materials like gold, silver or precious stones. Some pieces will last for generations.

We realize that each one of us has a special requirement. One may want a visually appealing piece for a special friend or spouse. Another may want an item that will be cherished for years as a symbol of lasting friendship and trust. Some of us are proud to possess a piece which requires great patience and talent to make. It is these little preferences that make us want a certain piece more than another.

We present below the methods of rating the art.

Aesthetics and visual appeal are subjective. We rate our items according to feedback we receive from customers and connoisseurs. A piece rated 8 or 9 on a scale of 10, will be eye-catching wherever placed. A piece with a rating of 2 on 10, will fit into certain ambiences. It may not attract attention by itself but would contribute greatly to the overall aesthetics of an ensemble. However these are only pointers and it depends squarely on each individual to decide the aesthetic value of the item.

History and origin are more easily described. Older art forms which have originated centuries ago are given a rating of 9 on 10. Other forms which have their roots in this century are rated below 5 on 10. The rarity of art would also affect its rating. We would give some fast disappearing art forms a 7 or 8 on 10.

Art differs in the level of skills and talent needed to create it. Some pieces take more than a year to make and require honing of skills over decades. These pieces often employ special talents such as excellent hand-eye coordination or a high degree of finger dexterity. Such items are rated 8 or 9 on 10. Others items which can be made after a few months of learning would get a 3 or 4 on 10.

Finally there are items which are valuable because of the special materials or stones used. We derive their rating based on two factors -the value of the material used and durability (subject to proper handling). Items made of gold, silver or precious stones have high durability and material value and would get an 8 or 9. Wooden items would be rated lower as they are less durable. Fragile items like bamboo weavings would get a 3 or 4 on 10.

To summarize : each of the items has a rating in all the four categories. Depending on the category you choose, the items will be presented in the descending order of rating in that category.