Stone Studded Photo Frame - Srikalahasti
Customized moulds of Gods and Goddesses are purchased from local factory in bulk. The artificial stones are bought from local markets. Both male and female artisans participate in this craft. Together they create beautiful idols of wonderful work for the common people to cherish the beauty of the idols. The customized moulds are segregated as per their identifications of the gods and goddess. Artificial stones of various colours are used in decorating the idols. Lord Venkateswara mould is the most common idol among others. The customized moulds which are painted in golden colour are redecorated by the artificial coloured stones. The artisan observes the mould and decides on the colours to be filled. Sometimes the idols are painted to differentiate the body from the jewellery. Face of the idol is usually painted black along with a white iconography on the forehead of the idol. Different colours of stones are used in decorating the idol and enhancing the appearance. Each part of the mould is divided with coloured stones which differentiates the features of the idol. The artisan studs the stones into the idol with the help of tweezers and fixed them with glue. After embellishing the whole mould with the artificial stones and painting the frame of the mould is prepared. The decorated frames are prepared with wooden blocks. The frame is been covered with the glass which secure the craft from dust. The back frame is prepared with the wooden planks which gives a base for the idol to be placed. Sometimes the back frames are decorated with velvet paper or mirrors to high light the craft. To obtain the lustrous aspect of the idols the serial lights are fixed throughout the wooden frame. After the serial lights are checked the glass frame is ensured to the frame and finishing is given to it by covering it with the paper and tape.
