A Glimpse of Divine Prosperity
This exquisite wooden panel presents a harmonious tableau of the Ashta Lakshmi, the eight manifestations of the Hindu Goddess Lakshmi, who embodies wealth, fortune, love, and prosperity. Each form of Lakshmi is meticulously depicted in natural colors, carefully inlaid into the wood, showcasing the rich artistic heritage of Mysore craftsmanship. The panel provides not only a beautiful visual, but also an auspicious presence, bringing blessings of abundance and well-being to its surroundings.
Each of the eight Lakshmis is enshrined in a carved archway. From left to right, they are:
* Adi Lakshmi:
The primal form of the Goddess, representing the ancient, eternal nature of Lakshmi.
* Dhana Lakshmi:
Bestows material wealth and prosperity.
* Dhanya Lakshmi:
Giver of agricultural wealth and food grains, ensuring nourishment and sustenance.
* Gaja Lakshmi:
Depicted with elephants, symbolizing royal power and abundance born of nature.
* Santana Lakshmi:
Grants the blessing of progeny and continuation of the family lineage.
* Veera Lakshmi:
Embodies courage, strength, and valor, protecting devotees from adversity.
* Vijaya Lakshmi:
The bestower of victory in all endeavors, both worldly and spiritual.
* Vidya Lakshmi:
Grants knowledge, wisdom, and learning, illuminating the path to enlightenment.Mysore Inlay: A Legacy of Art
The artwork exemplifies the traditional Mysore style of wood inlay, a technique renowned for its intricate detail and use of natural materials. The process begins with meticulously carving the designs onto a wooden surface. Inlays of contrasting wood, ivory (now often substituted with bone or other sustainable materials), and sometimes precious metals, are then carefully fitted into the carved recesses. This method produces a stunning visual effect, where the interplay of textures and colors creates a sense of depth and richness. Mysore inlay work has been patronized by royalty for centuries, and this panel continues that tradition of artistry and excellence. This panel isn't just a piece of art; it's a legacy, a celebration of craftsmanship passed down through generations.
Auspicious Placement
In Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of architecture, placing an image of Lakshmi in the home or workplace is believed to invite prosperity and good fortune. Displaying this panel in a prominent location, such as a living room or entrance hall, can create a positive and harmonious atmosphere, attracting abundance in all areas of life. It serves as a constant reminder of the blessings and potential for growth that surround us. Let this representation of divine grace transform your space into a sanctuary of prosperity and well-being. The natural colors and rich wood tones bring a warm, inviting energy to any room, making it a beautiful and meaningful addition to your décor.How Mysore Wooden Inlay Paintings Are Made ?
Wood inlay is a historically significant art form from the 18th century. It arrived in India through Srirangaptnam in Mysore from Persia but has become an inevitable part of the Indian heritage. Tipu Sultan and the Wodeyars/Wadiyars are credited with the growth of this 400-year-old art form in Mysore and its neighboring areas.
Wood inlay work is usually done on a Mysore rosewood base, and other woods are used, like mango, kadam, jackfruit, rubber, doodhi, etc. Pieces of wood are adorned with beautiful motifs and patterns made from various materials. From wall hangings and paintings to jewelry boxes and furniture, many items are made using the Mysore wood inlay technique.
An outline is etched on a piece of rosewood with a sharp tool. Then, the area inside the outline is hollowed out, and materials like lacquer, enamel, contrasting wood, and sometimes even gold and silver are placed inside it. A sandpaper is used to give a
smooth finish to the surface.
Process of Mysore Wood Inlay Work -
The first step in the process is selecting the base and the design to be carved onto it. Planks are cut out of Rosewood logs in many shapes like square, rectangular, oval, or even circular. The surface is smoothened, and the sides are evened out.
The second step is creating the designs for the inlay on paper. These designs are then traced on transparent paper and then transferred to the surface of the desired material, such as another type of wood, lacquer, plastic, etc.
After that, the design is traced onto the rosewood planks. Using a coping saw, the designs are cut, and the rough edges are smoothened using a smooth file. Once that is done, the wood inside the outline is scooped out, leaving groves in the plank.
After that, the design cutouts are fitted in the groves, and the surface is beaten with a hammer to ensure the designs stay firm and in place. In case of any gaps, they are filled using a mixture of glue, rosewood, and sawdust.
The final step in creating Mysore wood inlay products is cleaning and polishing the items with beeswax. A coating of lacquer is applied to give them a glossy touch.
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