Buddhist Woodcarving - Himachal Pradesh
Buddhist wood carving stands out from other forms due to its amalgamation of traditional as well as modern disposition. Their expression, patterns, and ability to be transpired to any viable form won them a unique identity in the crafts market. Generally, well-seasoned timber of teak or pine wood is used for these wood carvings. According to requirements, small planks are made ready prior to any orders, to be shaped into the required size and shapes later. The artisans maintain and reassure the thickness of the prepared structures with the help of motorized machines and tools. Once the rough wooden body is ready, an attractive design is sketched on a tracing sheet to be later traced onto the wooden surface. Here the excess wood is chopped off using chisels. Later the intricate designs are carved layer-by-layer on both sides of the wood. The depth and shallowness on the wooden surface depend on the type of chisel and the creative experience of the artist. Once the carving is completed, its surfaces are then smoothened with sandpaper, followed by dusting. Then the designed parts of the frame are fixed to each other to join in together firmly. Ultimately, varnish or enamel is applied to enhance the look and feel of the final product.
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