A Sacred Tapestry: The Tirupati Balaji Panel
This exquisite 48" x 24" panel is a breathtaking portrayal of Lord Venkateshvara, the presiding deity of the Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites in India. More than just a painting, this piece is a testament to the rich artistic heritage of Mysore, showcasing the intricate art of wooden inlay work. The natural wood tones beautifully complement the vibrant hand-painted details, creating a truly captivating visual experience. The three-dimensional effect adds depth and realism, bringing the divine presence of Lord Balaji to life. The detailed carving on the dark wood frame adds a touch of elegance and tradition, enhancing the overall appeal of this masterpiece.The Divine Venkateshvara: Legend and Significance
Lord Venkateshvara, also known as Balaji, is a form of Vishnu, one of the principal deities of the Hindu pantheon. According to legend, he descended to earth to alleviate the suffering of mankind. The Tirumala temple, nestled atop the Seven Hills, holds immense spiritual significance, drawing millions of devotees each year. The temple itself is steeped in mythology, with tales of divine intervention and miraculous events woven into its very fabric. The deity is believed to grant wishes and bestow blessings upon his followers. This panel brings a piece of that sacred energy and profound devotion into your home or sacred space.Mysore's Artistic Legacy: The Craft of Wooden Inlay
This panel exemplifies the artistry of Mysore's renowned wooden inlay tradition. For centuries, skilled artisans have perfected this technique, meticulously crafting stunning designs by embedding pieces of wood into a larger base. The result is a multi-dimensional, textured artwork that reflects the depth and complexity of the design. The careful selection of wood types and the precise placement of each inlaid piece showcases both patience and artistic skill. This attention to detail is evident in the rich color palette, intricate ornamentation, and detailed depiction of Lord Balaji and his sacred surroundings. Owning this panel is akin to owning a piece of living history.A Masterpiece for Your Home
This remarkable panel is more than just a decorative piece; it's a captivating work of art that brings a sense of serenity and spirituality to any environment. Its impressive size (48 inches in height and 24 inches in width) commands attention, making it a stunning focal point in any room. Whether displayed in a home temple, meditation room, or a living space, this piece serves as a constant reminder of faith, devotion, and artistic excellence. The rich, natural colors and intricate details ensure it complements a wide range of décor styles, adding a touch of elegance and cultural richness to your personal space. The durable construction promises that it will grace your home for generations to come, a cherished heirloom passed down through family. A perfect gift for those who appreciate religious art and cultural heritage.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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