Wood Carving of Maharashtra

Nashik is the centre of carved timber houses and other wood carvings in Maharashtra. Each window, beam, door bracket, and pillar in these timber houses is artistically ornamented with carvings based on the sacred lotus theme.

Wood carving is done with the wood from the root of driftwood. The best root pieces are carved and moulded into different attractive shapes and figures. Often the depictions are of gods, and other times they are of plants, insects, or humans. The process involves cuttings, grazing, and smoothening. Polishing entails sanding the pieces and painting them with wood varnish. Carving is also used to create sculptures.  The most intriguing aspect of these sculptures / figurines is that they are made from a single piece of wood with no joints. Supports can be added to increase stability and power.

Even today, the entrance of each household has elaborate wood carvings of Hindu deities and auspicious motifs such as the hamsa/mythical swan, padma/lotus, poornakumbha/cornucopia, kaamadhenu, and patterned floral motifs.