Ancient Hindu iconographical theories pride in skilfully conveying veiled ideas through perceptible art. Inspiring awe and devotion in the heart of the seeker, this neatly carved wooden murti of Sri Krishna, is the lessons of the Puranas, Gita, and all their rhythms fused together in one image. Such is the magic of the craftsmanship in this cedar wood statue that one can easily forget it is just an idol and soak in the divine presence of Krishna.
Three beautiful Mor Pankh (peacock feathers) are tidily tucked in the jeweled mukut (crown) adorning the head of Sri Krishna. His realistically carved ornaments include- earrings, a gorgeous necklace with lotus petal designs, a waist belt with pearl, and precious metal arranged in a number of parallel lines. His bansuri (flute) with the Makara (a mythical crocodile-like animal) motif at its end is held gracefully in his hands, as pretty as the flowers of spring, their appeal enhanced by the Haath Phool (set of rings with attached strings of pearls and bracelet) worn by the Lord. His dhoti worn in Kaccha style clings beautifully to his body, while his Uttariya freely flows, mingling with the vines germinating from and around Krishna. Krishna’s male energies (Purush) combine with the female potencies (Prakriti) represented by the stylized creepers blossoming rhythmically. The physique of Sri Krishna puts to shame the beauty of Kamadeva, the god of love, and our woodwork here has rightly captured this idea. The brilliance of Krishna’s youthful figure is highlighted by the Vanamala, the garland of exotic fauna found deep in the forest, and the yajnopavita (sacred thread). The potent incarnation of Vishnu stands with poise on an extremely naturalistic lotus flower, carved in a semi-circle, decorated at its base with a bunch of lotuses, sprouting out of the waves below, representing the primordial waters from which all life forms emerged. Krishna stands Contrapposto (the majority of his body weight shifted on one leg) looking like an image of beauty and charm. What makes this wood statue stand apart is the Om, the primordial sound framing the image of Krishna. The artist wants us to see the paradoxical nature of Sri Krishna, the centre of the universe. He is Saakar, has a form, and the most exquisite form at that as well as Nirakaar- formless. Like the sound of Om, he cannot be seen, but heard, experienced. He and Om are one. He is Pranav- a term used to denote both Om and Lord Vishnu.
How to care for Wood Statues?
Wood is extensively used in sculpting especially in countries like China, Germany, and Japan. One feature that makes the wood extremely suitable for making statues and sculptures is that it is light and can take very fine detail. It is easier for artists to work with wood than with other materials such as metal or stone. Both hardwoods, as well as softwood, are used for making sculptures. Wood is mainly used for indoor sculptures because it is not as durable as stone. Changes in weather cause wooden sculptures to split or be attacked by insects or fungus. The principal woods for making sculptures and statues are cedar, pine, walnut, oak, and mahogany. The most common technique that sculptors use to make sculptures out of wood is carving with a chisel and a mallet. Since wooden statues are prone to damage, fire, and rot, they require proper care and maintenance.
It is extremely important to preserve and protect wooden sculptures with proper care. A little carelessness and negligence can lead to their decay, resulting in losing all their beauty and strength. Therefore, a regular clean-up of the sculptures is a must to prolong their age and to maintain their shine and luster.
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