Wooden Decor of Rajasthan
Rajasthan is among the richest states in India as far as the field of arts and crafts is concerned. May be it was a result of the war-like lifestyle of the people of Rajasthan which sharpened the creative senses, artistic skills and inspired them to create the most opulent and richest of treasures. Stone, clay, leather, wood, ivory, lac, glass, brass, silver, gold and textiles were given the most brilliant forms.
Artisans in Rajasthan have been doing some intricate woodwork, which has made their items popular across the globe.Woodwork is produced out of traditional woodwork centers of Rajasthan including Jodhpur, Rangarh, Kishangarh, and Shekhawati. Small tables, photo frames colored in traditional colors,Traditional Jharoka, wooden animal decor and Rajasthani furniture are some things that sell like hot cakes.
The wood of Acacia is preferred by artisans because painting done on a finished piece of Acacia looks exceptionally aesthetic. Floral patterns, along with a vivid display of human figures, find their way to the traditional wood market of Kishangarh.
The aesthetic portrayal of Radha-Krishna paintings on Kishangarh woodwork is a testimony to the technical expertise of artisans and reflect the influence of changed traditional beliefs in the daily lives of people associated with traditional woodwork industry in Rajasthan.
Traditional motifs that were inscribed on silk as miniature paintings, have found their way in the wood market. This is a reflection of the technical expertise of artisans who have managed to relive this ancient art form and have found a new medium of expression in the form of wood work paintings that lend an interesting appeal to the already exquisite furniture industry.
Rajput influence manifests itself in the intricate woodwork of Jodhpur, which is admired more for its aesthetic color combination than for paintings of Hindu Gods and Rajput kings. The combination of intricate designs coupled with traditional carvings common in various parts of Rajasthan gives the woodwork produced here an aesthetic look.
The intricate jaali work along with portrayal of Hindu deities personify the traditional influence Hindu architecture has had on the woodwork. This is further personified by the elegance of the artisans who have crafted the art of woodwork designing over the years.
The ever-increasing demand of traditional Rajasthani home decor & furniture the world over is a tribute to the glory of the artisans who have managed to create a perfect balance between traditional ethos and modern beliefs.