Stone carving of Rajasthan
Rajasthan is remembered for its handicrafts. The colorful and intricate handicrafts of Rajasthan, always attract art lovers.Each handicraft of Rajasthan is unique , may be because it has influence from Mughal art. To mention few handicrafts, wood work of Rajasthan , differs from wood work practised in other states of India. The wooden handicrafts are painted and made colorful. Of course wood work of Andhra Pradesh also colorful, but the style is different. Very significant among Rajasthani handicrafts are Jharokhas– balconies of monuments or buildings.
Stone carving:
Rajasthan is also famous for stone carving. It is because, variety of stones like granite, quartzites, sandstone and marbles. etc. Most of the stone carvings are jaali worked. Jaali is kind of carving, where it resembles a net. Earlier times, jaali worked marbles or sandstone were used as window panels of women’s rooms. So that women can view the outside through these jaali, but for outsiders , women were not seen. This was kind of protection to women too.
Candle holder with jaali design pattern
Apart form Jaali patterns, flowers, animals and geometrical designs are also used. Some carvings have combination all of these patterns.
Combination of Jaali and animal pattern
The artists nowadays have started making home decors with the traditional carvings. The style and patterns have not changed much, but the usage has changed.
Artist holding a candle holder
The patterns are mainly carved on sand stone , as these are soft rocks.
The marble carving has modified, and includes miniature paintings on it.
Marble carving with miniature painting
Though the art of stone carving has undergone little modification, with the time, the intricacy and beauty of the art are intact.
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