Indian craftworkers have traditionally combined art with producing useful objects. Craftworkers of the Harappan civilization nearly 4,000 years ago produced jewellery, gold ornaments, seals, and toys.

Indian craftworkers have made religious images of bronze or clay from these early times. Jewellery has always been highly prized in India, and craftworkers have excelled in making ornaments from jewellery worn by village women to the crowns of princes. The Mughal emperors loved jade and precious stones. Highly skilled craftworkers made Shah Jahan a magnificent throne, called the peacock Throne, mostly of precious stones and metal.

India's craftworkers have also produced excellent textiles over a long period. Ancient Greeks and Romans imported Indian silks, which they prized highly, Kashmri craftworkers today produce woollen shawls, lacquer work, wood carving, and other quality craftwork. My sore is a noted centre of sandalwood carving. Kerala produces ivory work, and Orissa, Rajasthan, and Delhi are known for filigree work (ornamental wire work).