Description
A traditional house in the village of Khuri, situated in the Thar Desert near Jaisalmer in Rajasthan. The walls are mostly made of a mixture of clay, straw and cow dung, which provides natural insulation in the extreme desert climate – keeping the house cool in summer and warm in winter. The striking geometric patterns on the exterior walls are called mandana. These ritual wall paintings are traditionally created by women using lime (white) and red clay (geru) to protect the house and invite good fortune. Typical features include the flat roofs, small windows to keep out the heat, and the distinctive wooden door, often painted turquoise or blue. – 1990
