A Reverence in Wood
This magnificent wooden panel presents a captivating depiction of Lord Hanuman, the epitome of devotion, strength, and selfless service, alongside an image of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh. Crafted with meticulous detail using traditional Mysore inlay techniques, this piece is not merely a decorative item but a gateway to the rich tapestry of Hindu mythology. The natural colors and intricate patterns embedded within the wood bring to life the divine narrative, allowing the viewer to connect with the spiritual essence of the deities.The Mighty Hanuman and the Sacred Mount
The artwork portrays a scene deeply rooted in the epic Ramayana, one of the most revered texts in Hinduism. Hanuman, the devoted servant of Lord Rama, is depicted carrying the Dronagiri mountain. In the heat of battle, Lakshmana, Rama's brother, is gravely wounded. The only cure is a specific herb found on the distant Dronagiri peak. With unparalleled speed and unwavering devotion, Hanuman soars across the skies, uproots the entire mountain, and delivers it to Lanka, enabling Lakshmana's recovery and turning the tide of the war. This act of extraordinary heroism and selfless service has enshrined Hanuman as a symbol of unwavering loyalty and strength. The subtle rendering of Brahma, Vishnu, and Mahesh, the supreme trinity of Hindu deities, bestows a divine blessing upon the heroic endeavors.Mysore's Legacy of Craftsmanship
This panel is a testament to the time-honored art of Mysore wooden inlay. Hailing from the region of Mysore in Karnataka, India, this craft is known for its precision, artistry, and the use of natural materials. Generations of artisans have perfected this technique, meticulously embedding small pieces of ivory, sandalwood, and rosewood into a base of ebony or other hardwoods to create intricate patterns and scenes. The lustrous finish and the seamless integration of different materials contribute to the timeless appeal of Mysore inlay work, transforming wood into a canvas for storytelling and artistic expression. The craftsmanship breathes life into ancient tales, preserving cultural heritage and artistic traditions for future generations.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.
