WOODCRAFTS

Woodcraft are mostly associated with the architecture of Kashmir. Woodcraft skills in the region were ancient, but shifted from stone to wood during the Muslim Sultanate period in the 14th century; so did aesthetics, from figurative to geometric. The Pinjrakaari and Khatambandi crafts of decorative lattice and paneling came much earlier with Turkish and Persian influences. Houseboats and carved walnut furniture with intricately carved floral, chinar and animal motifs started during the Sikh and Dogra period catering to the influx of European tourists to Kashmir throughout the 19th and 20th century.

Wood crafting is one of the most important cottage industries in Kashmir. Walnut wood is very soft, so crafts men carve out intricate and beautiful designs on it. Beautiful vine and chinar leaves, roses and lotus flowers are carved out on soft walnut wood. Wood carving is done on furniture-sofas, beds, cabinets as well on window panes, doors , ceilings , walls and even on floors. One of the most popular woodcarving designs is khatambandh which is mostly done to adorn ceilings and walls. To learn more visit: www.rukhposh.com