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A Triad of Lakshmi, Mariamman and Saraswati with Attendants

$806.25
$1075
25% off
Includes any tariffs and taxes
Specifications
RL04
South Indian Temple Wood Carving
Height: 11.5 inch
Width: 36 inch
Depth: 1.5 inch
Weight 4.68 kg
Delivery and Return Policies
Usually ships in 40 days
Returns and Exchanges accepted within 7 days
Free Delivery
Easy Returns
Easy Returns
Return within 7 days of
order delivery.See T&Cs
Fully Insured
Fully Insured
All orders are fully insured
to ensure peace of mind.
100% Handmade
100% Handmade
All products are
MADE IN INDIA.

A Temple Carving from the South

This exquisite wood carving originates from the heart of South Indian artistry, a region renowned for its intricate temple architecture and devotional carvings. The tradition of wood carving is deeply embedded in the cultural landscape of South India, with generations of artisans honing their skills to create masterpieces that adorn temples and homes alike. This specific piece embodies that dedication, showcasing a level of detail only achievable through patient and skilled craftsmanship. Every curve, every line, speaks to the artisan's deep reverence for the deities represented and the rich heritage they represent. The use of wood lends warmth and a sense of natural beauty to the carving, connecting it to the earth and imbuing it with a sense of timelessness. The meticulously applied colors bring the deities to life, adding depth and vibrancy to the artwork.

A Divine Assemblage

At the heart of this carving is a powerful combination of three goddesses, each representing a distinct facet of the divine feminine: Lakshmi, Mariamman, and Saraswati. The goddesses are rendered alongside their attendants, further emphasizing the importance of devotion and service in their respective spheres of influence. Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth, prosperity, and abundance, bestows her blessings upon her devotees. She is depicted in her iconic style, seated in a lotus, the symbol of beauty, purity and transformation. The attendants beside her are ready to serve. Mariamman, a powerful South Indian village deity, is known as a protector and healer. She is often associated with rain and fertility, bringing sustenance and well-being to her followers. And finally, Saraswati, the goddess of knowledge, music, art, and wisdom, is the embodiment of learning and creativity. She carries the Veena, and her presence encourages creativity and the arts.

The Significance of the Triad

The coming together of these three goddesses in a single carving holds profound significance. Lakshmi provides the material sustenance for life, Mariamman safeguards health and well-being, and Saraswati bestows knowledge and wisdom. Together, they represent a complete and holistic approach to life, encompassing material prosperity, physical health, and intellectual growth. This carving is not simply a decorative piece; it is a representation of the blessings needed to lead a fulfilling life. Displaying this carving in your home is seen as an invitation to these goddesses to bestow their blessings upon you and your family, creating an atmosphere of prosperity, health, and wisdom within your space. It is an addition to your home that can deepen your devotion.

A Timeless Work of Art

Measuring 11.5 x 36.0 x 1.5 inches, this is a statement piece, ideal for adding a touch of South Indian elegance to any room. The craftsmanship is evident in the intricate details and the careful application of color, making it a true work of art. The durable wood used in its construction ensures that it will be a treasured heirloom for generations to come. With its rich cultural significance and exquisite craftsmanship, this South Indian temple wood carving is more than just a decoration; it is a piece of art that speaks to the soul, connecting you to a rich tradition of devotion and artistic expression.

Sculpting Serenity: Unveiling the Art of Crafting Wood Statues

Wood has been a preferred material for sculptures and statues since ancient times. It is easy to work with than most metals and stones and therefore requires less effort to shape it into any desired shape or form. The texture of the wood gives an element of realism to the sculpture. The selection of an appropriate wood type is necessary for carving. Woods that are too resinous or coniferous are not considered good for carving as their fiber is very soft and thus lacks strength. On the other hand, wood such as Mahogany, Oakwood, Walnut wood, Weet cherry wood, etc., are preferred by sculptors because their fiber is harder. A wood sculptor uses various tools such as a pointed chisel in one hand and a mallet in another to bring the wood to the desired measurement and to make intricate details on it. A carving knife is used to cut and smooth the wood. Other tools such as the gouge, V-tool, and coping saw also serve as important tools in wood carving. Although the wood carving technique is not as complex and tough as stone carving or metal sculpting, nonetheless, a wood carver requires a high level of skills and expertise to create a stunning sculpture.

1. Selecting the right wood

The process of wood carving begins with selecting a chunk of wood that is required according to the type and shape of the statue to be created by the sculptor. Both hardwoods and softwoods are used for making artistic pieces, however, hardwoods are preferred more than softer woods because of their durability and longevity. But if heavy detailing is to be done on the statue, wood with fine grain would be needed as it would be difficult to work with hardwood.
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2. Shaping the wood

Once the wood type is selected, the wood carver begins the general shaping process using gouges of various sizes. A gouge is a tool having a curved cutting edge which is useful in removing large unwanted portions of wood easily without splitting the wood. The sculptor always carves the wood across the grain of the wood and not against it.
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3. Adding detailing

When a refined shape of the statue is obtained, it is time for making details on the statue using different tools. This is achieved by using tools such as a veiner to make and a V-tool to create decorative and sharp cuts.
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4. Surface finishing

Once finer details have been added, the sculptor is ready to smoothen the surface and give it a perfect finish. Tools such as rasps and rifflers are used to get a smooth surface. The finer polishing is obtained by rubbing the surface with sandpaper. If a textured surface is required, this step is skipped. Finally, to protect the statue from excessive dirt accumulation, the sculptor applies natural oils such as walnut or linseed oil all over it. This also brings a natural sheen to the statue.
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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.

 

  • Wood tends to expand and contract even after it has been processed, thus it is always recommended to keep the wooden sculptures in rooms with little humidity. Excess moisture can harm your masterpiece.

 

  • Periodical dusting of the finished piece is necessary to maintain its beauty as dust accumulation on the surface takes away the shine of the sculpture. You can use a clean and soft cloth or a hairbrush for this purpose.

 

  • You must avoid applying any chemical-based solutions that may damage the wood from the inside. Instead, you can apply lemon oil or coconut oil using a cotton rag to the sculpture to bring out its natural shine. Lemon oil also helps to clean any stains on the sculpture.

 

  • Applying a layer of beeswax protects the wood from sun damage and hides even the smallest imperfections on the wood.

 

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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