Question 1

What is मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick)?

Accepted Answer

ईंट (Clay Brick), or *Ishtika* (इष्टिका) in Sanskrit, is a ceramic structural material integral to Indic heritage architecture. Formed from clay, its composition varies based on geological origin, typically sourced from alluvial deposits in regions like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Processing involves shaping, drying, and firing at 800-1100°C, yielding compressive strengths of 15-30 MPa and water absorption of 10-20%. Density ranges from 1600-2200 kg/m³. Traditional kilns (*bhatti*) utilized locally sourced fuel. The Maurya and Kushan dynasties extensively employed *Ishtika* in structures, documented in archaeological sites [1]. Durability depends on firing temperature and clay composition. Conservation necessitates understanding material degradation mechanisms like salt efflorescence and bio-deterioration. Restoration often involves replacing deteriorated *Ishtika* with compatible materials, ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic harmony. *Kacchi mitti ki eint* (कच्ची मिट्टी की ईंट) refers to unfired bricks. *Sengal* (செங்கல்), *Iṭuka* (ఇటుక), *Iṭṭige* (ಇಟ್ಟಿಗೆ), and *Iṣṭika* (ഇഷ്ടിക) are regional names. Brick hammers were used in construction [1].

Question 2

What type of material is मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick)?

Accepted Answer

मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick) is classified as Ceramic, Structural Material. Key properties include Compressive strength: 15-30 MPa, Water absorption: 10-20%, Density: 1600-2200 kg/m³.

Question 3

Where is मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick) used?

Accepted Answer

मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick) is commonly used in Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala. It is sourced from Local clay deposits near riverbeds.

Question 4

How is मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick) used in heritage architecture?

Accepted Answer

मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick) is used for Load-bearing walls, Vault construction, Paving, Enclosure walls, Foundation construction in heritage architecture. It is found in 1 heritage sites.

Question 5

What are the conservation considerations for मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick)?

Accepted Answer

Conservation of मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick) requires attention to Susceptible to salt efflorescence and Erosion due to weathering. Proper maintenance is essential for preserving heritage structures using this material.

Title	मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick) 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site) Rare Mṛttikā īnṭ Clay Brick 4.5/5(Based on 1 heritage site)
Description	ईंट (Clay Brick), or Ishtika (इष्टिका) in Sanskrit, is a ceramic structural material integral to Indic heritage architecture. Formed from clay, its composition varies based on geological origin, typically sourced from alluvial deposits in regions like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar. Processing involves shaping, drying, and firing at 800-1100°C, yielding compressive strengths of 15-30 MPa and water absorption of 10-20%. Density ranges from 1600-2200 kg/m³. Traditional kilns (bhatti) utilized locally sourced fuel. The Maurya and Kushan dynasties extensively employed Ishtika in structures, documented in archaeological sites [1]. Durability depends on firing temperature and clay composition. Conservation necessitates understanding material degradation mechanisms like salt efflorescence and bio-deterioration. Restoration often involves replacing deteriorated Ishtika with compatible materials, ensuring structural integrity and aesthetic harmony. Kacchi mitti ki eint (कच्ची मिट्टी की ईंट) refers to unfired bricks. Sengal (செங்கல்), Iṭuka (ఇటుక), Iṭṭige (ಇಟ್ಟಿಗೆ), and Iṣṭika (ഇഷ്ടിക) are regional names. Brick hammers were used in construction [1].
Also Known As	Clay Brick Mṛttikā īnṭ Clay Brick Common Brick Unfired Brick मिट्टी की ईंट कच्ची मिट्टी की ईंट साधारण ईंट मृदा ईंट इष्टिका செங்கல் (Sengal) ఇటుక (Iṭuka) ಇಟ್ಟಿಗೆ (Iṭṭige) ഇഷ്ടിക (Iṣṭika) விட்டம் (Viṭṭam)
Tags	इष्टिका Ishtikā Brick Clay Firing Terracotta Construction Material Ancient Brick
Material ID	`INHFMAT-962152868-20-11-25-IY`
URI	https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/clay-brick
API Endpoint	`https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/clay-brick`
Total Sites	1
Primary Sites	1
Created	November 20, 2025
Last Updated	November 28, 2025

Time Periods	Early Historic Period Kushan Period
Dynasties	Maurya Dynasty Kushan Dynasty

मृत्तिका ईंट (Clay Brick)

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