A Momentous Dialogue
Witness a pivotal moment from the Mahabharata, immortalized through exquisite craftsmanship. This grand tableau captures the profound conversation between Lord Krishna and Arjuna on the battlefield, offering a visual narrative of duty, dharma, and divine guidance. You'll appreciate the sheer scale and intricate detail that brings this epic scene to life, making it a truly captivating focal point for any discerning collector.
The Art of Wood Inlay
Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, this masterpiece is a testament to traditional wood inlay techniques. Artisans have painstakingly selected and carved natural wood veneers, employing a rich palette of earthy tones to depict the dramatic sky and the figures within the scene. The natural colors of the wood are enhanced by the delicate inlay work, creating a textural richness and depth that no paint could replicate.
Visual Grandeur and Delicate Detail
The sheer size of this piece, spanning 50 inches in width, allows for a breathtakingly comprehensive portrayal of the scene. Observe the serene yet commanding presence of Lord Krishna and the earnest Arjuna seated in their ornate chariot, pulled by four majestic horses. The delicate inlay work extends to the chariot's embellishments, the warriors adorning its canopy, and even the symbolic lion guarding the front, each element rendered with remarkable precision on the wood panel. The overall effect is one of opulence and spiritual gravitas, perfectly framed by the deep, rich tones of the wooden border, measuring 28 inches in height and 3.5 inches in length.
Echoes of Ancient Wisdom
This depiction draws from the sacred epic, the Mahabharata, a foundational text in Hindu philosophy. The moment it portrays is the universally recognized Bhagavad Gita, where Krishna imparts philosophical and spiritual truths to Arjuna, who is torn by the impending war. Owning this piece connects you to a rich cultural heritage and the timeless wisdom that continues to inspire generations.
A Statement of Refinement
Imagine this magnificent artwork gracing your entryway, study, or main living area, commanding attention and sparking conversation. Its substantial presence makes it ideal for larger spaces where it can truly be appreciated. You might envision it as a backdrop to quiet contemplation or as a striking visual anchor in a room dedicated to art and culture.
Preserving Enduring Value
To maintain the pristine beauty of this wood inlay creation, gentle dusting with a soft, dry cloth is recommended. Avoid direct sunlight and excessive moisture, as these can affect the natural wood and inlay over time. With proper care, this exquisite piece will retain its splendor and continue to be a cherished heirloom, its value and significance enduring for years to come.
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.
