While each of our tribes comprise of a few families, the sheer variety of tribes to be found in the subcontinent is numberless. The ways of life and languages are distinct from one tribe to another, of which very little has been documented. This is because of how remote they are, and how close yet self-sufficient their economies are. Speaking of economy, art is a major part of tribal life-expression, which in turn plays a two-pronged role in their sustenance. One, art produced by the peoples of a tribe gives us first-hand insight into their unique culture, and serves to create and preserve knowledge of the same. Second, their characteristic handiwork elevates these works to a certain standard of international art.

The dynamic brass figurine you see on this page is one such work of art. It captures a quintessential aspect of Indian tribal life. Foraging, hunting, and gathering are their primary means of livelihood, so it is imperative that their menfolk know their way around the woods and the mountains. This young man is clad in a coarse dhoti, short enough to facilitate agility, and a turban to hold back his curls. Bracelets, anklets, and danglers constitute his adornments, which are probably the hallmarks of his clan. From the stance of his arms, he seems to be taking a short-distance aim at a small unsuspecting animal. He has three more arrows behind his back, the tips of which are visible from above his lean shoulders. Note the sharp curves that define his face - the large eyes, the handsome nose, and the barely-there moustache.