Introduction

Design Resource

Soap Stone Carving - Mysore

The Craft of Soap Stone Carving

Prof. Bibhudutta Baral and Antony William

Introduction

Mysore- the city of palaces is located about 146 km southwest of Bangalore in Karnataka state. Mysore is hub of cultural arts and handicrafts. Famous Mysore painting, Rose Wood inlay and typical Mysore silk sari are world renowned crafts from Mysore. The unique soapstone carving also adds weight to the cultural wealth of Mysore. The history of Soapstone carving in Mysore dates back to many centuries and well patronized by royal kingdoms. Mysore is the center of Soapstone carving due to abundant availability of soapstone deposits, which is available in and around Mysore. H.D.Kote near Mysore is the center for soapstone deposits. Many skilled artisans are engaged in carving soapstone to create fascinating artifacts with graceful expressions. The block of stone is first marked as per the design to be carved and it is carved out using chisels of different sizes to obtain the intricate patterns. Enhanced outlook, Smooth finish and detailed designs are the result of great craftsmanship.

All the carved products mainly used in several religious temples in and around Mysore and also sent to the all over places in India based on the orders. Some of the contemporary art forms are carved based on special requests by the end users. In Karnataka, Shivarapatna and Malur are other major centers for stone carving.

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Soap Stone Carving - Mysore