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Craft Profile |
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Painted Wood Craft
Wood craft has been an integral part of the rich tradition of handicrafts in India. The availability of a wide variety of woods enabled the flourishing of several distinctive wood crafts and styles. Carving, inlay with copper and brass wires, painting, lacquering, appliqué and marquetry are some of the unique wood craft forms that have been prevalent in the country for centuries. The use of wood craft in architecture such as carved wooden doors, columns, balconies/jharokas, ceilings, etc was an integral part of the cultural life in ancient and medieval India. Each region had a distinctive style depending on the local raw materials and traditions. Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Kerala had rich traditions of wood carving especially evident in temples. Chariots for carrying deities during festivals, religious figurines and temple structures were carved in wood, sandalwood being the most popular. Assam with its dense forests was also known for its wood carving. Gujarat and Rajasthan were also centers of exquisite wood work.
Palaces and havelis with intricate carved and painted work are examples. Elements of Islamic culture are noticeable in intricate lattice or jaali work and floral motifs. Barmer, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, and Rampur are known for their distinctive styles of wood furniture making. Uttar Pradesh was another important center for wood craft with Saharanpur, Nagina, and Mainpuri specializing in carved and inlay work, the latter introduced through Islamic influence. Kashmir was well known for its excellence in walnut wood carving. The legacy of wood craft traditions can be seen today in traditional Kashmiri houses with overhanging balconies that are enclosed in fine lattice work. Besides these well-known examples, wood craft has been practiced in almost all regions of the country. Paper-thin bowls for Jain monks are made out of rohida wood in Pali district of Rajasthan. The hill regions of Himachal Pradesh and Uttaranchal show skilled craftsmanship in wood craft with intricate etchings on pillars and doors.
Wooden boxes for storing grains and bowls are other examples from these regions, as from other regions in the country. The erstwhile rulers patronized wood craft in architecture. The tradition has become almost extinct now. Today craftsmen are engaged in making furniture, products for everyday use, toys, and decorative items that are in demand in the market. |
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