Mysore Sandalwood Trees: These trees are really versatile in nature. The artisans end up making breathtakingly stunning pieces of Sandalwood art and they showcase how old, culturally rich and diverse the traditions of India.
The Origin
These crafts were first made in the seventeenth century which means they have one of the most poignant histories in the world. They started at the time of the Woodeyar dynasty and the rulers loved the idea of Sandalwood carving. It is because of this fact that the artisans got the required encouragement to experiment with the craft, as they liked. They possessed support from the royal family of Mysore. This helped them in inventing and creating new Techniques.
Sandalwood carving is a process which is extremely time taking and demands patience.
Artisans always need to use specific, sharp tools to create the best designs and patterns. After they have got Sandalwood logs of the best quality, they precisely cut it into thin slices or blocks, as per the requirement of the product. Then they use these logs of woods or blocks to carve the required designs and patterns which is an ode to our great Hindu gods and goddesses. Sometimes they even draw the objects of nature or some form of architecture. In order to make the most perfect designs, artisans use a variety of Techniques like carving, etching and piercing. If you ever spot them, you will be able to see beautiful descriptions of old folktales and stories, floral motifs and even small animals that have been created with the best hands. Every design requires hours of work to perfect and the dedication of the artist towards their craft is completely perfect.
Scent
These sculptures are said to have a pleasing fragrance. It has a really distinctive smell which will add calmness to your soul. Also, you will not be able to feel the fragrance immediately, you will feel it over a period of time which makes it even more pleasing. There is spirituality that is attached to this scent, making many believe that it attracts a sense of calmness and positivity in their house.
Types of Sandalwood Products
Figurines are really popular which consists of popular figures like Goddess Lakshmi, the bringer of prosperity. Some people also like to buy animal Carvings like the carving of a deer or an elephants. A deer can also be a symbol of the Shakun deer that attracted Ma Sita. An elephant is supposed to increase the purity of the household. Lion sculptures can make the owner feel confident about themselves. These different types of sculptures are said to have a variety of impacts on people. They buy decorative panels that they use to showcase geometric motifs.
If we wish for the legacy of Mysore Sandalwood to continue, we should start talking about it and how culturally diverse it is. This can help the artisans who create them to earn a good livelihood. We should also make it a point to buy from artisans directly so that they can get the income that they truly deserve. We should tell people about the various Techniques with which Mysore Sandalwood is created, to make people more aware about the beauty of this craft. After all, if artisans do not get enough motivation and recognition to continue their craft, it will eventually die and the artistic history of India is so diverse that we should never allow it to be stopped. We should always encourage all artisans and try to promote their craft through buying or telling our friends and family about it. Authentic handmade handicrafts are very valuable.
Author
Shreeja Mukherjee