A Glimpse of Daily Life
This exquisite wooden panel captures a timeless scene of rural existence, inviting you to connect with the enduring spirit of village life. You'll appreciate the artistry that transforms natural wood into a narrative of everyday journeys and the quiet dignity of those who sustain their communities. It is a piece that speaks volumes without uttering a sound, evoking a sense of connection to a simpler, yet profound, way of living.
Whispers of Wood and Craftsmanship
Created with masterful inlay work, this panel showcases the exceptional skill of artisans who have brought a scene to life using only natural colors and meticulously selected wood. Each piece of wood has been carefully chosen and precisely fitted to form the figures, their attire, the rugged terrain, and the foliage. You will marvel at the depth and texture achieved through this intricate technique, a testament to heritage craftsmanship passed down through generations.
Visual Symphony in Natural Tones
The composition, standing a commanding 36 inches in height and 24 inches in width, draws you into a moment frozen in time. Observe the delicate rendering of the women and child, their forms brought to life through subtle variations in wood grain and color. The rich, earthy tones of the wood create a warm and inviting atmosphere, while the darker tones of the tree and framing provide a striking contrast, highlighting the central narrative with artistic flair. You'll find yourself captivated by the nuanced play of light and shadow that the natural materials inherently possess.
Echoes of Ancient India
This depiction of women carrying water pots is a motif deeply rooted in the cultural fabric of India, symbolizing resilience, communal responsibility, and the vital role women play in sustaining households and villages. It resonates with the spirit of countless women across millennia, performing this essential task with grace and strength. The scene evokes a connection to the timeless stories and traditions that form the bedrock of Indian heritage.
A Focal Point for Your Sanctuary
Imagine this captivating piece adorning your living room, study, or dining area, bringing a touch of artisanal charm and cultural depth to your decor. Its substantial presence makes it an ideal centerpiece, sparking conversation and contemplation among your guests. You might find it perfectly placed above a console table, as a striking element in a gallery wall, or as a standalone statement piece in a serene corner of your home.
Enduring Beauty, Gentle Care
To preserve the vibrant beauty and integrity of this handcrafted wooden panel, we recommend gentle dusting with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid direct sunlight and extreme humidity, which can affect the natural wood over time. With proper care, you ensure that this heirloom-quality piece will continue to enrich your living space and serve as a cherished connection to artisanal tradition for years to come.
Tips to Care for and Maintain Mysore Wood Inlay Paintings
Woodwork is a prized possession, and it deserves to be cherished that way, especially regarding Mysore's wood inlay work. However, it is prone to damage if not cared for properly. Certain things need to be kept in mind while caring for it.
One of the most important things to be done is to avoid exposure to direct sunlight since it can cause the color of the wood to fade away. Exposure to extreme heat and extreme cold must also be avoided.
In order to maintain the shine of a Mysore rosewood handicraft, wax polish can be used on it.
Do not let dust stay settled on the surface of Mysore wood inlay products for a long period. Keep dusting them regularly. To clean them, use a dry cloth gently on the surface to remove the dust.
Wood inlay products have a lot of gaps and crevices due to the technique used on them, and that is where dust particles can be collected. Avoid the accumulation of dust in these crevices by using fine brushes with soft bristles.
Ensure that you do not let the Mysore wood inlay products come in contact with moisture and humidity, as it can cause fading and warping of the wood.
Avoid the usage of alcohol-based liquids on the surface of the Mysore rosewood product since alcohol can corrode the product's surface.
Do not use harsh chemicals and detergents to clean the wood since abrasive cleaners can damage the wood. Use wood-friendly soap if necessary, and let it dry after cleaning.
Dry immediately in case of spillage of liquids on the surface of the item.
Mysore wood inlay products are invaluable art pieces, and they deserve proper and regular care. Better care for them means longer life.
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.
