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100% Handmade
100% Handmade
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MADE IN INDIA.

Dashavatara Panel With Mythical Flora And Fauna

$1462.50
$1950
25% off
Includes any tariffs and taxes

Over the course of our itihasa as a collective microcosm, the importance of the dashavatara cannot be overemphasised. The word ‘dashavatara’ is a portmanteau of the Sanskrt words ‘dasha’, which means ten, and ‘avatara’, which means incarnation. Every time a wave of adharma swept over us, Lord Vishnu made an appearance amongst us in mortal form - man, beast, a composite of man and beast - in order to ensure that dharma prevails over adharma. The panel that you see on this page contains all the dashavatara figurines and, as such, would be an auspicious addition to the home of any devotee.

The panel is carved from wood and subdivided into three horizontal panels of equal width. The uppermost panel features two of the dashavataras - Lord Matsya and Lord Koorma - while the remaining panels feature Lord Hayagreeva, Lord Narasimha, Lord Vamana, Lord Parashurama (central panel so far), Lord Rama, Lord Kalkee, Lord Krishna, and Lord Varaha (the lowermost panel). The spaces in the uppermost panel where there is no avatara are occupied with the chakra (disc) and the shankha (conch), respectively.

The figurines are distinguished by miniscule temple-pillar structures. Mythical birds of vibrant plumage flank each of the panels. Emerald-coloured vines along all four edges of the panel, with more vibrantly plumaged creatures nestling in them. Such a work of art is sure to infuse your space with colour and, of course, an aura of sacredness.

Specifications
ZEP029
WOOD STATUE
49 INCH HEIGHT X 62 INCH WIDTH X 2.5 INCH DEPTH
Weight 44 kg
Delivery and Return Policies
Usually ships in 40 days
Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
Free Delivery
Easy Returns
Easy Returns
Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs
Fully Insured
Fully Insured
All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.
100% Handmade
100% Handmade
All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

A Divine Tapestry of Cosmic Cycles

Step into a realm of ancient narratives and divine intervention with this breathtaking wooden carving, a testament to the rich artistic heritage and profound spiritual beliefs of India. This exquisite panel depicts the Dashavatara, the ten principal avatars of the Hindu deity Vishnu, each representing a specific epoch and a crucial role in preserving cosmic order. From the primordial Matsya, the fish that saved Manu from a great flood, to the mighty Kalki, prophesied to appear at the end of the Kali Yuga, each avatar embodies a unique form and purpose in the grand cyclical drama of creation, preservation, and destruction.

The Avatars in Vivid Detail

Each of the ten avatars is meticulously carved within its own arched niche, supported by intricately designed pillars that echo temple architecture. The first row showcases Matsya (fish), Kurma (tortoise), Varaha (boar), and Narasimha (man-lion). The second row features Vamana (dwarf), Parashurama (warrior with an axe), Rama (prince and warrior), and Krishna (flute-playing divine herdsman). The final row presents Buddha and the yet-to-appear Kalki. The figures are rendered with remarkable detail, capturing their distinctive attributes and divine grace, brought to life by vibrant, hand-painted colors that accentuate their forms and divine aura.

Mythological Flora and Fauna Adorning the Divine

Surrounding the divine depictions, the panel is a riot of mythological flora and fauna, enhancing the sacred narrative. Lush, stylized vines with blooming flowers in shades of crimson, orange, blue, and green cascade across the frame. Graceful peacocks, symbols of beauty and immortality, fan their ornate tails, while mythical birds and serpents weave through the design, representing protection and eternity. The presence of these creatures not only adds aesthetic splendor but also deepens the symbolic resonance, linking the earthly and the divine realms in a harmonious composition. This detailed artistry reflects the profound connection between nature and spirituality prevalent in Hindu mythology, where every element often carries a deeper meaning.

A Legacy of Craftsmanship

Crafted from wood, this panel is a masterpiece of traditional Indian woodworking. The artist's skill is evident in every carve, every detail, and the precise application of color. The smooth, polished finish speaks of dedication and a deep understanding of the material. Such panels have historically adorned temples, palaces, and homes, serving as both decorative art and as powerful visual aids for storytelling and devotion. This piece is not merely a carving; it is a gateway to ancient tales, a celebration of divine cosmology, and a testament to the enduring power of skilled craftsmanship. It is a significant artifact for collectors, art enthusiasts, and anyone seeking to bring a piece of sacred Indian heritage into their space.

Sculpting Serenity: Unveiling the Art of Crafting Wood Statues

Wood has been a preferred material for sculptures and statues since ancient times. It is easy to work with than most metals and stones and therefore requires less effort to shape it into any desired shape or form. The texture of the wood gives an element of realism to the sculpture. The selection of an appropriate wood type is necessary for carving. Woods that are too resinous or coniferous are not considered good for carving as their fiber is very soft and thus lacks strength. On the other hand, wood such as Mahogany, Oakwood, Walnut wood, Weet cherry wood, etc., are preferred by sculptors because their fiber is harder. A wood sculptor uses various tools such as a pointed chisel in one hand and a mallet in another to bring the wood to the desired measurement and to make intricate details on it. A carving knife is used to cut and smooth the wood. Other tools such as the gouge, V-tool, and coping saw also serve as important tools in wood carving. Although the wood carving technique is not as complex and tough as stone carving or metal sculpting, nonetheless, a wood carver requires a high level of skills and expertise to create a stunning sculpture.

1. Selecting the right wood

The process of wood carving begins with selecting a chunk of wood that is required according to the type and shape of the statue to be created by the sculptor. Both hardwoods and softwoods are used for making artistic pieces, however, hardwoods are preferred more than softer woods because of their durability and longevity. But if heavy detailing is to be done on the statue, wood with fine grain would be needed as it would be difficult to work with hardwood.
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2. Shaping the wood

Once the wood type is selected, the wood carver begins the general shaping process using gouges of various sizes. A gouge is a tool having a curved cutting edge which is useful in removing large unwanted portions of wood easily without splitting the wood. The sculptor always carves the wood across the grain of the wood and not against it.
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3. Adding detailing

When a refined shape of the statue is obtained, it is time for making details on the statue using different tools. This is achieved by using tools such as a veiner to make and a V-tool to create decorative and sharp cuts.
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4. Surface finishing

Once finer details have been added, the sculptor is ready to smoothen the surface and give it a perfect finish. Tools such as rasps and rifflers are used to get a smooth surface. The finer polishing is obtained by rubbing the surface with sandpaper. If a textured surface is required, this step is skipped. Finally, to protect the statue from excessive dirt accumulation, the sculptor applies natural oils such as walnut or linseed oil all over it. This also brings a natural sheen to the statue.
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How to care for Wood Statues?


Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.

 

  • Wood tends to expand and contract even after it has been processed, thus it is always recommended to keep the wooden sculptures in rooms with little humidity. Excess moisture can harm your masterpiece.

 

  • Periodical dusting of the finished piece is necessary to maintain its beauty as dust accumulation on the surface takes away the shine of the sculpture. You can use a clean and soft cloth or a hairbrush for this purpose.

 

  • You must avoid applying any chemical-based solutions that may damage the wood from the inside. Instead, you can apply lemon oil or coconut oil using a cotton rag to the sculpture to bring out its natural shine. Lemon oil also helps to clean any stains on the sculpture.

 

  • Applying a layer of beeswax protects the wood from sun damage and hides even the smallest imperfections on the wood.

 

It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster. 

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