THE CRAFT
Rajasthan Wood Carving
From the state of Rajasthan
Jaipur, Jodhpur
The woodwork of Rajasthan is known for its fine quality and carved intricate patterns. The beautifully carved doors, projecting niches and balconies of royal houses and havelis (big quarters) are a common sight. Even carved furniture is famous, especially in the style of Jodhpur and Jaipur. No Rajasthani haveli, resort or hotel is complete without wood carving.
Heritage Value
Most artisans engaged in this craft are from Barmer and some belong to the Meghwal community. They are known for carving stands for flour grinders, cots, camel and bullock carts, and cradles for rural communities. The carvings on these objects are decorative and sometimes include small, engraved metal elements. The time- honoured skills of these communities have adapted to modern times to meet the needs of flourishing urban and export markets. The artisans of Jodhpur craft a range of wood products carved, painted, embellished with metal work and given an antique finish. The metallic decorations mostly use brass, but white metal and copper are also used. Sheets of metal are embossed, cut into required shapes and sizes, and finally affixed onto the wooden object to cover it partially or entirely. Sometimes, the wood is painted and distressed, or given an antique finish.
Memory Vault
The Suthar community of carpenters, who are known as Mistris (workmen) in Gujarat moved from villages to Jodhpur and Jaipur, to establish a craft cluster. Their wood carving network consists of enterprising members.
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Any information on this page is anecdotal and based on publicly
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