Driftwood and Root Carving of Tamil Nadu

Drift root or the root of the ‘Sea Mova’ tree is available along the seashore. The craft people are found in Tamil Nadu. The best pieces of wood are chosen to carve out shapes and figures. The shapes crafted include figures of gods, goddesses, humans, birds and animals. Shapes are made from the wood by cutting, filing and sand-piping. Filling is done with glass pieces. Finishing is done with sand paper and wood varnish. Stands for the sculptures are carved from the same piece of wood. The entire sculpture is of one piece, without any joints. Supports are added to the rear to make the sculpture more stable.