| Title | मृत्तिका लेप (Clay Mortar)Rare Mṛttikā Lepa Clay Mortar |
|---|---|
| Description | मृत्तिका लेप (Mrittika Lepa, Clay Mortar), also known as *mrittika gara* or *chikni mitti ka lep*, is an earthen material used extensively in Indic heritage architecture as a bonding agent and plaster [1]. Its geological origin lies in alluvial clay deposits found across the Indian subcontinent, including regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Punjab, and Haryana. The chemical composition primarily consists of hydrated aluminum phyllosilicates, with varying amounts of quartz, feldspar, and iron oxides. Traditional processing involves quarrying clay, followed by soaking, mixing with water, and often incorporating organic binders like rice husk to improve workability and reduce shrinkage. Archaeological evidence suggests its use dating back to the Harappan Civilization and the Mauryan Dynasty for brick bonding, wall plastering, joint sealing, and foundation bedding. Mrittika Lepa exhibits low compressive strength (0.5-2 MPa), high porosity (25-40%), and significant shrinkage upon drying. Conservation efforts at heritage sites necessitate careful analysis of the original *mrittika sanghat* to replicate its properties and ensure compatibility during restoration. Durability is affected by moisture exposure and erosion. |
| Also Known As | Clay Mortar Mṛttikā Lepa Clay Mortar Earthen Mortar Mud Plaster मिट्टी का गारा मृत्तिका गारा मृत्तिका संघात चिकनी मिट्टी का लेप |
| Tags | मृत्तिका लेप Mrittika Lepa Clay Mortar Mud Earthen |
| Material ID | INHFMAT-288363975-20-11-25-MR |
| URI | https://www.inheritage.foundation/aat/material/clay-mortar |
| API Endpoint | https://www.inheritage.foundation/api/v1/aat/materials/clay-mortar |
| Total Sites | 1 |
| Primary Sites | 0 |
| Created | November 20, 2025 |
| Last Updated | November 28, 2025 |
| Types | Earthen Material Mortar Plaster |
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| Regions | Rajasthan Gujarat Punjab Haryana |
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| Time Periods | Harappan Civilization Early Historic Period |
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| Dynasties | Indus Valley Civilization Mauryan Dynasty |
| Sources | Local clay deposits Riverbeds |
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| Properties | Compressive strength: 0.5-2 MPa Porosity: 25-40% Low tensile strength High shrinkage upon drying |
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| Uses | Brick bonding Wall plastering Joint sealing Foundation bedding |
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| Materials | Bālī (Rice Husk) Gomaya (Cow Dung) Chunā (Lime Mortar) |
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| Styles | Vernacular Architecture Rural Architecture |
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| Categories | Residential Buildings Earthen Structures |
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| Notes |
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| Title | Type | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Traditional Indian Mortars | Technical Report | Analysis of clay mortar composition |
| Site Name | Status | Usage | Confidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Multan Sun Temple Ruins Multan | Secondary | 100% |