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This Tree of Life with Peacock composition is rooted in the enduring Sikki grass craft tradition of the Mithila region in Bihar, India — a heritage art historically preserved and practiced by the women artisans of rural Mithilanchal. Harvested from the wetlands and marshy landscapes of North Bihar, Sikki grass is prized for its natural golden sheen and supple texture, qualities that make it uniquely suited for intricate handcraft and detailed surface work.
For generations, Sikki craft served primarily utilitarian purposes, forming grain storage containers, ritual objects, and ceremonial items integral to domestic and spiritual life. Over time, the practice evolved from functional weaving into a sophisticated decorative art form, expanding into toys, jewelry, and eventually narrative and symbolic pictorial compositions. In this artwork, the grass is carefully cut near the root, washed, sun-dried, shaved, and sometimes naturally dyed before being meticulously shaped and layered onto paper. Munj grass is incorporated as a structural base, reinforcing the composition while allowing for precise geometric detailing.
The central imagery features a peacock gazing upward toward the Tree of Life. The Tree of Life, a universal emblem across cultures, represents growth, resilience, renewal, and interconnected existence. The peacock — revered in Indian iconography — embodies grace, prosperity, protection, and spiritual elevation. Together, they create a visual dialogue between aspiration and continuity, grounded in nature yet elevated through symbolism. The organic texture of the Sikki fibers, combined with disciplined patterning and fluid composition, reflects both ecological sustainability and the patience inherent in handcrafted artistry.
Acknowledging its cultural significance and regional identity, Sikki Grass Craft was granted Geographical Indication (GI) status in 2007 as the 46th GI-tagged product of India. This artwork has been handcrafted by Shri Sooraji of Mithila, Bihar, continuing a lineage of eco-conscious craftsmanship that bridges ancestral knowledge with contemporary aesthetic presentation.