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Vettakkoru Makan

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Name: Vettakkoru Makan
Brand: Exotic India
SKU: ZBC83
Price: 1235.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$1544

Includes any tariffs and taxes

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Specifications

	ZBC83
	South Indian Temple Wood Carving
	Height: 40.5 inch
	Width: 18 inch
	Depth: 6.5 inch
	Weight 12.50 kg

Delivery and Return Policies

	Usually ships in 35 days
	Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
	Free Delivery

Easy Returns

Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs

Fully Insured

All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.

100% Handmade

All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

A Vision of Divine Grace and Power: The Vettakkoru Makan Wood Carving

This exquisite South Indian temple wood carving depicts the dynamic form of Vettakkoru Makan, a revered deity often associated with hunting, martial prowess, and divine justice. Rendered with masterful skill and deep devotion, this sculpture captures a moment of intense energy and spiritual significance, bringing to life an ancient tradition of sacred art. The carving portrays Vettakkoru Makan in a powerful stance, embodying a divine hunter ready to protect the righteous and vanquish evil. The multi-armed depiction is characteristic of many Hindu deities, symbolizing their omnipresence and ability to act in countless ways simultaneously. Each arm is adorned with intricate jewelry and holds significant objects, hinting at the deity's vast powers and responsibilities. The primary arms are engaged in action, while others might be in meditative or blessing poses, showcasing a balanced fusion of ferocity and compassion. The deity's facial expression is one of serene intensity, with eyes that seem to survey the cosmos and a subtle, knowing smile. The meticulously carved mustache and headdress further enhance the regal and formidable aura of the figure.

Mythological Resonance and Cultural Significance

Vettakkoru Makan is a particularly important deity in certain regions of South India, especially in Kerala. Tales surrounding this deity often link him to Lord Shiva in his fierce aspect, or as a manifestation of a tribal deity integrated into the broader Hindu pantheon. Legends speak of his prowess as a hunter who safeguards forests and the creatures within them, as well as his role in ensuring justice and order. He is often invoked for strength, courage, and protection against malevolent forces. The act of hunting, in a mythological context, can symbolize the pursuit of spiritual knowledge, the eradication of inner demons, or the decisive action needed to restore balance in the universe. This carving, therefore, is not merely an artistic representation but a conduit to these rich narratives and beliefs.

Craftsmanship and Artistic Heritage

Hailing from the esteemed tradition of South Indian temple wood carving, this sculpture is a testament to generations of accumulated artistry. The wood itself, chosen for its durability and suitability for fine detail, has been transformed by the artisan's hands into a living, breathing form. Every curve, every fold of the clothing, and every element of ornamentation is executed with breathtaking precision. The texture of the wood, combined with the intricate carving, creates a tactile and visual experience that draws the viewer into the spiritual essence of the deity. The style reflects the architectural and sculptural traditions found in ancient temples, where such carvings were an integral part of the devotional landscape, intended to inspire awe and facilitate a connection with the divine. This piece is a heritage artwork, embodying the spiritual ethos and artistic excellence of its origin.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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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