Woodcarving in the interiors of different countries. Woodcarving in India From Chair to Throne


Wood carving in India

Wood carving is the most common and trivial art form in India. Since ancient times, wood, being an accessible and easily processed material, has been used widely and everywhere, starting with the manufacture of weapons, tools, construction of dwellings and ending with the manufacture of household items.

The most common tree species used in woodworking in India are teak, sal, oak, mango, ebony (black) and mahogany.
Sandalwood, rosewood and walnut- expensive varieties of wood that are used in most of India, mainly for the manufacture of elegant sophisticated decorative elements of furniture. Only in the territory of Kashmir, where walnut and rosewood trees grow in large quantities, they are used to make solid furniture, souvenirs, dishes, etc. Kashmir cabinet makers are famous for their special exquisite style, embodying their delicate artistic taste.

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Khatumband (khatumband), or khatam band, and - the main wood carving techniques common in Kashmir.

A distinctive feature of the khatumband technique is the creation of carved wooden panels used to decorate the ceiling and interior walls of the house.

Khatumbanda is characterized by the use of walnut wood, as well as coniferous trees. The assembly of panels, decorated with geometric patterns, is carried out without the use of nails and fasteners, resembling the fitting of lining or parquet. Thus, a solid geometric pattern is obtained.


in a houseboat

This technique is also widely used in floating hotels. houseboats in Srinagar. Also, this technique is used in the manufacture of furniture such as cabinets, screens and chests of drawers.

Pinjrakari (pinjrakari) is related carving technique used for the manufacture of carved lattices, tapestries, decorative partitions and individual elements.

AT use light woods. This technique eliminates the use of glue and nails.


Khankah Shah-i-Hamadan

A good example of wood processing using these techniques is Khankah Shah-i-Hamadan, the oldest Sufi mosque in Srinagar (Kashmir), founded in 1395 on the banks of the Jelam River and reconstructed in 1731.

In the densely forested territory of the state of Assam grow different kinds plants. Bamboo, as the most widespread representative of the local flora, in combination with cane locals have long used for the production of household items, furniture, decorative items such as frames and lampshades, souvenirs and other trifles.

Wooden objects produced in central India are known throughout the country. These are handmade, mostly highly artistic, filigree-carved items such as furniture. different types and forms, altars, caskets, snuffboxes, trays, figurines of Ganesha, Krishna and other deities, as well as miniature figures of birds, horses, elephants, dancers and dancers.


carved altars

Madhya Pradesh is famous for its palaces, forts and ancient houses, decorated with amazing, detailed carvings, wooden ceilings, window and door lintels - evidence of a glorious era of skilled craftsmen. Central India is also the main producer of such traditional musical instruments as dhol(dhol) is an Indian percussion instrument swarmandal(swarmandal) - Indian zither, etc. The main centers of artistic woodworking in Madhya Pradesh are Gwalior, Morena, Rewa and Raisen.

Talking about the traditions of wooden architecture in India, Special attention I would like to pay attention to Gujarat and Rajasthan - the most important centers of woodcarving. Carefully guarded craft traditions are passed down here from generation to generation, preserving their originality. Since the territories of these states do not have rich timber resources, raw materials are imported from other countries such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, etc. However, the lion's share products are made from domestic wood purchased in the wooded areas of India, namely from hardy wood Himalayan cedar, rosewood, mahogany and ebony, teak, sandalwood. Local acacia wood also comes into play. grannies(Acacia nilotica). The generally recognized center of woodworking is the district of Kutch with its capital - the city of Bhuj. The detailed geometric and floral motifs used in the carvings showcase the fine craftsmanship of the local artisans. Kutch craftsmen specialize in making bedposts, cots, baby cradles, candlesticks, bookends and holders, rolling pins, whisks, cutlery, bowls and various other household items.


book holder


bookend

Kutch is also known as the region where India's finest carved wooden swings are made. The presence of a wooden swing in the courtyard of the house self made and to this day is considered a sign of prosperity and well-being of the family.

Rajasthan became famous for its unusual elegance and beauty of carved furniture, the tradition of using which dates back to rajputam. Beds, wardrobes, chairs, tables, screens - it's impossible to list everything. All this is only a small part of the pieces of furniture created by local architects.

The region is also famous for carved sculptures of deities and sandalwood souvenirs, as well as unforgettable wooden puppets, without which no performance in the "Rajasthani puppet theater" (kathputli) takes place. — letters. wooden lifeless doll kath- wood, putli- lifeless doll).

South tropical India is famous for products from sandalwood. The main sandalwood plantations are located in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The generally recognized center for the production of sandalwood is Mysore. Here various souvenirs and figurines of deities are made from it.

Kerala and the coast of Karnataka also specialize in marquetry (marquetry) - veneer inlays.


marquetry


marquetry


marquetry

The city of Kondapali in Andhra Pradesh and Channapatna in Karnataka are the main centers for the production of wooden toys popular throughout the country, as well as beyond its borders, attracting the eye with the brightness of colors and whimsical shapes.


Kondapali toys


Kondapali toys


toy store in Channapatna

In Tamil Nadu, the use of shells for decorative purposes is widespread. coconut, from which vases, teapots, bowls, lamps, pencil holders, jewelry and even buttons are made.


coconut bucket

Original entry and comments on

Wood carving has long been used to decorate houses and public buildings. This is one of the oldest and most common types of artistic and decorative wood processing.

Wood is a wonderful material, you can see amazing wood carving decorations in many churches and temples around the world. The craft of carving, intricate patterns on wood, is known in all cultures and is widely popular in countries where tree species suitable for woodcarving grow - Scandinavia, Great Britain, Japan, India, China and many others. Craftsmen use many types of wood - birch, aspen, linden, poplar or alder, oak, beech - a tree that has a characteristic pattern of structure and texture.

Wood carving techniques have been developed over hundreds of years and the variety of patterns and styles provide endless possibilities for creating amazing works of art that can gracefully decorate any home - facades, entrance doors, stairs, window trims, crown mouldings, columns, home furnishings, headboards, tables, chests of drawers, chairs, mirror and picture frames - you name it!

Exclusive home furniture and decorations

Wood carved furniture and decorative panels are exceptional items and are highly valued as the wood carving process involves many hours. manual labor and every culture and every country has certain wood carving patterns and traditions. For centuries, carved pieces of furniture have been a symbol of sophistication and sophistication, exclusive and luxurious furniture that demonstrated the status and taste of the owner of the house.

Wood carving includes several techniques that can be used to create masterpieces that have been popular in the past. The same techniques are used by the craftsmen of our time to create beautiful wood carving patterns. Chip carving, low relief, high relief, notched carving, intaglio carving, etc. Many pre-made wood carving types can be combined according to various methods that will enhance the visual aesthetics.

Wood carving in the interior is typical for classical styles such as baroque, empire, rococo and is seen in various architectural interior elements and furniture. Handrails and carved stairs enhance the feeling of nobility and sophistication. Carved columns and pillars are reminiscent of antiquity, and magnificent consoles adorn the ceilings and walls. Roses add to the spectacular decoration of windows, doors or coffered ceilings.

Wood carving - models in different styles

Different styles of home decor, different trends have created their own unique wood carving patterns. Experts and connoisseurs define carvings by style, as each one has its own characteristics. Elegant, strict and simple, refined and refined - each era has its own stylistic features that we see in the work of masters. For example, the gothic wood carving patterns are rich, the sculptures decorated with gold represent religious motifs.

The whimsical wood carving patterns look pompous, with beautiful curved and flowing lines, artistic contrasts of colors and shapes. The Empire style reflects the spirit of the era, features intricate patterns, shells and crests, wreaths and pieces of furniture are presented with amazingly shaped legs, for example, a lion with paws of sphinxes or swans.

Rococo wood carving patterns are amazingly elegant, refined and refined. Winding lianas, flower patterns shaped like garlands, mythological creatures are the patterns typical of this style. The period of classicism is distinguished simply by elegance and impeccable taste. Wood carving has a strict geometry, clear lines, simplicity of form and finish. Wood carving patterns are different in different cultures, and most of them have the ethnic traditions of the nation - African, Asian, and of Eastern Europe. These models are charmingly exotic and crafted with incredible precision. Japanese and Chinese woodcarving patterns have their own specifics and are very different from the models popular in India, their craftsmanship is absolutely unique.

Chinese Dongyang wood carving is the most famous traditional art which features intricate intricate wood carvings with multiple layers, forming absolutely breathtaking and stunning 3D masterpieces. Dongyang woodcarving is named after the city of Dongyang, and even today the city is known for being one of the four major woodcarving schools in China. Wooden carved furniture uses traditional symbols such as geometric patterns - hexagons or stars, the Dragon - a symbol of royalty and male fertility, butterflies, fish, phoenix, peony and bamboo.

In India, wood carvings can be seen in temples, on doors, pieces of furniture, the manufacture of decorative panels depicting elephants, intriguing floral patterns, animals all characterize the unique culture and traditions of the region.

Russian wood carving patterns were very popular as an exterior decoration for a home. Russian log cabins were decorated with masterpieces depicting floral patterns, geometric lace, graceful curls, rosettes, figures of lions, mermaids, birds and animals. Fantastic window casings and architectural elements are characteristic of Russian woodcarving. Islamic wood carving patterns cover the surface of the mosque doors with interlacing patterns, geometric shapes - hexagons, squares. The most complex wood products and the best examples can be seen on various pieces of furniture.

Despite the differences in cultural traditions, wood carving patterns show the inspiration, talent and creativity of the masters. Wooden carved furniture, wall panels, ceiling panels are highly valued all over the world for their unique beauty. Contemporary craftsmen also create amazing works of art – based on traditional methods or inventing intriguing new ways of working with wood. With the development of technology, craftsmen offer various finishes to preserve and protect the wood from insects, moisture, mold and bacteria. Carved wood furniture and panels are popular with interior designers as they offer opportunities to create interiors in classic styles like Empire, Rococo or Baroque with an atmosphere of luxury, grandeur and celebration. At the same time, different models and techniques can be used for amazing interiors in ethnic style - Moroccan, African, Japanese, Indian, Chinese, etc.



Bambay mosaic, skillful carving and unusual color of Indian furniture inspire and surprise. Speaking of Ancient India, it must be remembered that back in the first millennium BC. The predominant religion in India was Brahminism, which is based on a differentiated division of society into castes. Given the adherence of the Hindus to traditions, the right to engage in a craft passed from father to son according to strict caste canons. In their products, craftsmen used almost everything that nature gave them: wood, plant fiber, stone, clay, bone, shells, leaves and herbs. The products of furniture craftsmen reflect the habits and religious views of the inhabitants of the mysterious ancient country.

From chair to throne

The inhabitants of the East and Ancient India had a peculiar habit of sitting on the ground with their legs crossed under them. This posture was also used when sitting on a chair. Therefore, for the era of Ancient India, a backless chair with a round seat or a stool consisting of an openwork frame and a pillow in the form of a flattened ball, a kind of prototype of the pouffe familiar to us, was characteristic.

Luxurious furniture was used for solemn occasions: a ceremonial throne, with legs tapering at the bottom, protruding upper slats, decorated with dragon heads. Judging by the images that have come down to us, seated people preferred one position: the tucked left leg is located on the seat, and they themselves are half squatting. However, more comfortable benches are also known, reminiscent of a modern sofa.

Curious evidence was brought to us by Chulavamsa, the second part of Mahavamsa, a historical poem of the 5th century, about how King Jettihatissa, who lived in the 4th century, was himself known as an excellent master of ivory carving and even made the figure of a Bodhisattva (a being with an enlightened consciousness ) from the bone of an elephant and separate elements for his royal throne.

The use of varnish technology

The natural wealth of India in various resins gave rise to the development of lacquer technology in furniture making. Complex ornaments and high decorativeness were embodied by Indian craftsmen in colored lacquering and woodcarving. Basically, two methods were used: the carved furniture elements were covered with quick-drying colored varnishes and multi-layer application, followed by scratching the pattern. Lacquer masters stood on the lowest rung in the craft environment.

I-vaduvo, as the lacquer specialists called themselves, worked mainly as turners, carving furniture elements from wood. Rotating an object lathe, you can easily cover it with varnish by pressing a special varnish stick against it. Heated by friction, it softens and fills the recesses carved on the object. This technique is especially famous in the products of the Jodh-Puk craftsmen, who make decorative elements of furniture.

Various small pieces of furniture, all kinds of boxes were pre-made from papier-mâché, and then varnished in a complex way. Intarsia was used - an insert into the wooden surface of mother-of-pearl, ebony, ivory, called the Bombay mosaic.

From simplicity to sophistication

Unpretentious and unpretentious Indians widely used the primitive support for the body - "bairaga". Sitting in their usual squatting position, Indian fakirs slept peacefully, leaning their heads and hands on this stand. At the same time, the concept of comfort was not alien to the Hindus, as evidenced by the chair for ceremonies belonging to a Buddhist monk, which resembles a wooden throne in its design.

Ancient Indian Furniture varied: bizarre legs of stools and armchairs, rich carvings of bed headboards. The Chulavamsa says that the furniture in the palace of King Parakramabahu, who is famous for having gradually established a single centralized rule when he came to power in 1140, was decorated with gold and expensive ivory. The Indian style of furniture art is characterized by lush openwork carvings, a passion for decor and ornaments. Along with carefully worked out details, the Hindus' predilection for pomposity and ornamental complexity catches the eye. And often the product itself is not worth the effort and patience of the oriental master, who meticulously and painstakingly created it.

Call a measurer

Wood carving in India

Wood carving is the most common and trivial art form in India. Since ancient times, wood, being an accessible and easily processed material, has been used widely and everywhere, starting with the manufacture of weapons, tools, construction of dwellings and ending with the manufacture of household items.

The most common tree species used in woodworking in India are teak, sal, oak, mango, ebony (black) and mahogany.
Sandalwood, rosewood and walnut- expensive varieties of wood that are used in most of India, mainly for the manufacture of elegant sophisticated decorative elements of furniture. Only in the territory of Kashmir, where walnut and rosewood trees grow in large quantities, they are used to make solid furniture, souvenirs, dishes, etc. Kashmir cabinet makers are famous for their special exquisite style, embodying their delicate artistic taste.




Khatumband (khatumband), or khatam band, and - the main wood carving techniques common in Kashmir.


A distinctive feature of the khatumband technique is the creation of carved wooden panels used to decorate the ceiling and interior walls of the house.



Khatumbanda is characterized by the use of walnut wood, as well as coniferous trees. The assembly of panels, decorated with geometric patterns, is carried out without the use of nails and fasteners, resembling the fitting of lining or parquet. Thus, a solid geometric pattern is obtained.



in a houseboat

This technique is also widely used in floating hotels. houseboats in Srinagar. Also, this technique is used in the manufacture of furniture such as cabinets, screens and chests of drawers.

Pinjrakari (pinjrakari) is related carving technique used for the manufacture of carved lattices, tapestries, decorative partitions and individual elements.


AT use light woods. This technique eliminates the use of glue and nails.



Khankah Shah-i-Hamadan

A good example of wood processing using these techniques is Khankah Shah-i-Hamadan, the oldest Sufi mosque in Srinagar (Kashmir), founded in 1395 on the banks of the Jelam River and reconstructed in 1731.

In Assam, covered with dense forests, various types of plants grow. Bamboo, as the most widespread representative of the local flora, in combination with cane locals have long used for the production of household items, furniture, decorative items such as frames and lampshades, souvenirs and other trifles.







Wooden objects produced in central India are known throughout the country. These are handmade, mostly highly artistic items covered with filigree carvings, such as furniture of various types and shapes, altars, caskets, snuff boxes, trays, statuettes of Ganesha, Krishna and other deities, as well as miniature figurines of birds, horses, elephants, dancers and dancers.



carved altars

Madhya Pradesh is famous for its palaces, forts and ancient houses, decorated with amazing, detailed carvings, wooden ceilings, window and door lintels - evidence of a glorious era of skilled craftsmen. Central India is also the main producer of such traditional musical instruments as dhol(dhol) is an Indian percussion instrument swarmandal(swarmandal) - Indian zither, etc. The main centers of artistic woodworking in Madhya Pradesh are Gwalior, Morena, Rewa and Raisen.

Talking about the traditions of wooden architecture in India, I would like to pay special attention to Gujarat and Rajasthan - the most important centers of woodcarving. Carefully guarded craft traditions are passed down here from generation to generation, preserving their originality. Since the territories of these states do not have rich wood reserves, raw materials are imported from other countries such as Sri Lanka, Nepal, etc. However, the lion's share of the products is made from domestic wood purchased from the wooded areas of India, namely from hardy wood. Himalayan cedar, rosewood, mahogany and ebony, teak, sandalwood. Local acacia wood also comes into play. grannies(Acacia nilotica). The generally recognized center of woodworking is the district of Kutch with its capital - the city of Bhuj. The detailed geometric and floral motifs used in the carvings showcase the fine craftsmanship of the local artisans. Kutch craftsmen specialize in making bedposts, cots, baby cradles, candlesticks, bookends and holders, rolling pins, whisks, cutlery, bowls and various other household items.



book holder



bookend


Kutch is also known as the region where India's finest carved wooden swings are made. The presence of handmade wooden swings in the courtyard of the house is still considered a sign of prosperity and well-being of the family.


Rajasthan became famous for its unusual elegance and beauty of carved furniture, the tradition of using which dates back to rajputam. Beds, wardrobes, chairs, tables, screens - it's impossible to list everything. All this is only a small part of the pieces of furniture created by local architects.

The region is also famous for carved sculptures of deities and sandalwood souvenirs, as well as unforgettable wooden puppets, without which no performance in the "Rajasthani puppet theater" (kathputli) takes place. — letters. wooden lifeless doll kath- wood, putli- lifeless doll).



South tropical India is famous for products from sandalwood. The main sandalwood plantations are located in Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh. The generally recognized center for the production of sandalwood is Mysore. Here various souvenirs and figurines of deities are made from it.


Kerala and the coast of Karnataka also specialize in marquetry (marquetry) - veneer inlays.



marquetry



marquetry



marquetry

The city of Kondapali in Andhra Pradesh and Channapatna in Karnataka are the main centers for the production of wooden toys popular throughout the country, as well as beyond its borders, attracting the eye with the brightness of colors and whimsical shapes.



Kondapali toys



Kondapali toys



toy store in Channapatna

In Tamil Nadu, the use of shells for decorative purposes is widespread. coconut, from which vases, teapots, bowls, lamps, pencil holders, jewelry and even buttons are made.



coconut bucket

The masters' power over stone is best evidenced by the architectural and sculptural works of temples. The complex carved stone sculptures are among the finest in the world. Bodh, a place of pilgrimage for Buddhists, also has an ancient tradition of stone carving.

Nothing better expresses the character and Agra than their stone works. Sophisticated architectural masterpieces, magnificent sculptures - all these are exclusive works of art. For a number of centuries, Varanasi was at the center of civilization.

In the 3rd century BC. The court of King Ashoka gave a powerful impetus to the development of the art of stone carving. and that period are perhaps the earliest surviving stone buildings. The red sandstone of Chunar has been generously used in the creation of stone sculptures dating back to the period of the Mauryan dynasty and discovered during excavations in the areas of Mathura and Agra.
Ancient carvers were guided by the rules of sculpture prescribed in the ancient treatise "Shilpashastra". The statue of the main deity was created by craftsmen who had knowledge about the properties of various stones, their texture and the correct proportions.
Sculpting a divine idol was considered a cult act and had the meaning of a sacred ritual. Stone temples are being erected even today, and the Tamil Nadu Sthapathas, Gujarati and Rajasthani somaripuras are in demand throughout the country.

Agra is famous for its marble work. Many products are made here: lattice windows, mirror frames, consoles, niches, ornamental decorations in the form of pendants. Artisans are renowned for their inlay craftsmanship. In Rajasthan, a rich tradition of stone carving has been preserved even in ordinary homes. Door frames are usually made of red stone. Stone, lattice windows are decorated with carvings, and even the support frame for the loom is carved from carved stone. is one of the most important centers where a large community of stone carvers is engaged in the manufacture of statues of deities from marble.
In Orissa, soft is used to carve small souvenir items to be sold to tourists. In Mahabalipuram, Tamil Nadu, hard granite carving is done. There is also a school for teaching sthapatha artisans the rules of the "Shilpashastra". In Devanahalli, a village in Mysore, Karnataka, relief figures are created on black stone, characterized by expressive movements and expressive postures. Durga in Andhra Pradesh is another stone carving center where huge stone sculptures of the sacred bull and local deities are created.

Ivory carving is one of the oldest arts in India. Ivory is a valuable material and very difficult to carve. Important centers for ivory carving were in Kerala, Mysore and Karnataka, Jaipur and Rajasthan, Varanasi in Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, Punjab, Benrampur in West Bengal and Ganjam and Puri in Orissa. Recently, this art is disappearing, as the Indian government has imposed a ban on elephant hunting and ivory carving. Therefore, carvers are forced to turn towards other arts, in particular, bone carving. Usually they are engaged in this craft. Himalayan tribes practice this craft to make ritual objects. Sculpting animal figurines from bone is typical of Orissa.

Terracotta

This is another type of Indian art expressed in clay. Pottery and ceramics are utilitarian and often decorative, while porcelain and art products belong to the realm of art.
Terracotta is also used in offerings to numerous gods in the Hindu pantheon. Therefore, each region has its own distinctive design, content and form. Bengal has the largest range of excellent examples of terracotta temple panels. Even in the south of India, terracotta figurines of horses and elephants are offered as offerings to the deity Ayanar, which, according to legend, he rides.
Usually the size and shape of each product is symbolic. For example, in comparison with a horse, the figure of the rider may be too small. This is explained by the fact that the horse has a divine essence, while the rider is just a man.

The best terracotta tradition is perhaps found in West Bengal. Most statuettes have ritual significance. Bankura figurine is famous. Made of rich red clay, it is richly painted and decorated. Some of the finest terracotta figurines can be found at Murshidabad, Birbhum, Jessore, Hughli and Digha. They are made in folk style and are distinguished by unusually expressive designs. The use of colored glazed tiles began after the Muslim conquest. Tiled art - chini or porridge - has become very sophisticated. Today, many ceramic centers produce tiles - glazed and unglazed terracotta of traditional and modern designs.

Today we are witnessing the decline of traditional crafts, increasingly being replaced by mass-produced goods. A wealth of designs and shapes can be found by craftsmen in products Everyday life such as storage containers for rice and salt, clay water jugs, pots for cooking, incense burner. Utilitarian and unique, these household items are samples of the folk, passed down from generation to generation, and the result of the collective experience and wisdom of the people.

Numerous holiday items are produced in India: light bulbs for the festival of lights, toys for Dusshera, seedling pots for the Sankranti festival, and colorful kalash (pots) for weddings.
Many products are also used as decorations and can be a wonderful gift. Some of these are ashtrays, flower vases, tea sets, pottery, paperweights and decorative animal figurines.
Delhi is famous for its blue ceramics, which are made using exquisite Persian blue paint. The blue pottery is glazed and subjected to high heat treatment, which makes it strong. Jaipur blue pottery is also unique. Some of the products are translucent, usually they are decorated with images of animals and birds. Decorative items such as ashtrays, vases, coasters for glasses and bottles, cups and boxes for trinkets are made from Egyptian paste and subjected to low heat treatment.

Pottery

Mansa pottery can be found almost exclusively in Bengal. The pots made in this style have a bizarre curved shape with a face painted on it and symbolize the snake goddess. Similarly, the dakshinirai pots found in the Sunderbans region are round in shape with a neck representing a crown.
Khurja in Uttar Pradesh, a three hour drive from Delhi, is also well known for its inexpensive but durable tableware. Fired at high temperatures, these potteries retain their natural clay color and are in high demand.
The pottery of Rajasthan has its own characteristics. The necks of the water pots are small, probably to prevent spillage.
Alwar is famous for its paper-thin pottery, known as kagzi (paper).
And pottery has its own charm. Here you will be offered a wide range of figurines and decorative panels, not counting the lovely pots for water and flowers.
Interesting acquisitions will be black pottery and a chillum clay pipe from Tamil Nadu. In Kottaikorai in Pondicherry, glazed pottery is textured like an orange peel. The object is painted immediately before firing, most of the products have a utilitarian value: from candlesticks to water filters and dishes.

Reed and bamboo

In India, reeds and bamboos have been used in tribal art since ancient times. Today, simple crafts made from these materials adorn the homes of the wealthy, including elaborate cane furniture.
Utility and decorative items are made of cane in various styles and ornaments, among them baskets and mats are the most popular. and are known for their exquisite screens and bamboo mats made from split bamboo. The state of Assam, which has huge reserves of raw materials, produces a wide variety of products: baskets, mugs for rice beer, hooks (smoking pipes), musical instruments and floor mats. Neighboring Pradesh successfully carries out work on cane and bamboo, products such as cane belts are made here.
From Tamil Nadu come the famous herbal mats of kor.
The most exquisite mats are made in Kerala, where black and white square bamboo boxes are also made in the same tradition.

Reeds are a natural gift from the forests of Manipur. Today, due to actively developing cultivation in mountainous areas, reed resources are depleted. Another forest resource, bamboo, grows in abundance in the Churachandpur, Jiribam, Tamenglong and Imphal districts of Manipur, the largest producer of bamboo products after Tripura in the northeast. Bamboo products include sofa sets, murha, mats, baskets, trays, chairs, tables, flower vases, ashtrays and other decorative and household items.

Bracelets

Over the centuries, the wearing of bracelets has acquired cultural, social and religious significance. Until the Middle Ages, it served exclusively decorative purposes. Around this period, the bracelet turned from a purely decorative accessory into a symbol of marriage. Empty hands are symbolically associated with widows who were denied the right to wear bracelets.
In Bengal, an iron kada (bracelet), commonly referred to as a loha, is worn by married ladies as a symbol of their marriage. The bride also receives exquisite white shell and red lacquer bracelets.

In some communities, ivory bangles and glass bangles are important accessories for brides. The Punjabi bride traditionally receives miracles - thin ivory bracelets in white and red. These bracelets are issued only in multiples of four. Over time, expensive ivory was replaced by lacquer and plastic, but this custom continues to this day.
When a Gujarati bride becomes pregnant, her sister-in-law gives her a silver chain bracelet. In the seventh month, she is asked to wear a bracelet made of black thread and five kovdi (a type of shell). The bracelet is removed only when contractions begin, in order to symbolically facilitate childbirth. A similar walaykapu ceremony is held in South India.
The production and marketing of glass bracelets is mainly dominated by . Ferozabad - a city in Uttar Pradesh - is famous for the production of glass bracelets.

In each district, bracelets are made using locally available materials, such as wood in Kashmir or natural lacquer in Rajasthan.
The Ahirs of Rajasthan and the rabaris of Gujarat completely cover their arms with bangles of bone. The Lambadi of Andhra Pradesh adorn their arms up to the elbows with bone bracelets, which can tell a lot about the status of their owner. The Bastar tribe wear bracelets made of copper or beads. The Kashmiris have the most exquisitely painted papier-mâché bracelets.
Visit a craft fair
The Dilli Hut project, jointly launched by the Delhi Tourism and Transport Development Corporation and the Municipal Council, was conceived in order to allow craftsmen and artisans in need who do not have their own markets to present their exhibits. The complex, built on 2.4 hectares of land, is located in mall South Delhi. The concept of Dilli Hut was borrowed from the traditional village fair, with one major difference. While the village fair is changing venue, Dilli Hut is changing artisans, making it possible to present the whole panorama of Indian handicrafts in one place.
The complex employs 62 outlets which offer a variety of handicrafts brought from all over the country. The stalls are provided for two weeks each on a rotating basis, allowing the maximum number of artisans to display and sell their products. Dilli Hut also offers tourists the cuisine and performing arts of various regions of the country.

The Indian Crafts Council is a registered non-profit voluntary organization serving the purpose of preserving crafts and improving the living standards of artisans. The council is run by a group of volunteers elected every two years. Its headquarters is located in . The council has a network of handicraft councils in ten states through which basic work is carried out. However, the absence of the Council in any state does not prevent the necessary work from being carried out there.
The main tasks of the Council are to ensure the sale and quality of handicraft products, the receipt of decent wages by artisans and the creation of a situation in which future generations of artisans will find it worthwhile to continue working in this area. In addition, the Council ensures that artisans receive adequate raw materials at a standard price, helps improve tools and crafts, works on community building programs, develops product designs, and helps market handicrafts.

 

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