Stone Carving - Varanasi
The production process involves stages like stone cutting, sketching the design on it, carving and finishing the product. The making process starts by selecting fine quality stone. The big blocks are first roughly cut into shape according to the planned idol to be carved. The proportions are marked on the stone using charcoal and then the extra portion is taken out by hammering with hammer and chisel. The rough outlines of idol are drawn on the surface of the stone. Based on these rough sketches the major carvings are done by chiseling. Once rough details are carved, the detailing and ornamentations are carved using sharp-edged and pointed chisels. Finally the idol is smoothened and then polished by rubbing with stone called Batti locally. The polishing enhances the shine and luster of the article. The carved idol is washed with water and kept ready for the marketing. The quality of carving varies according to the requirement and the price as well. The idols are painted colorfully as per the client requirement.
