Wood Craft of Rajasthan

The current development of a large and potentially commercial export market has assisted in establishing a large wood work cluster in Jodhpur. Members of the carpenter caste called the Suthar immigrated from nearby villages to set up the foundations of this craft in the city. The Suthar are either from the Barmer, known for its intricate wood carving or belong to the Meghwal community that makes cots, camel and bullock carts, cradles and stands for flour grinders. These are decorated with finely carved details and small engraved metal components.

Consequently the city of Jodhpur now produces a variety of carved and painted as well as metal and antique finished wood works. Metals used for ornamentation include brass, copper and white metal.

The sheets of metal are first embossed with the help of dies, then cut into the desired shapes and sizes and finally, fixed onto the wooden article to cover it partially or completely. The partially covered wood is painted and distressed. It is often given an antique glaze.

The tools used for the process are hammers, saws, dies, chisels, files and sandpaper. Besides the aforementioned articles figurines, chests of drawers, carved shelves and idols of Goddess Gangaur are handcrafted by the craftsmen.